Drug addiction might seem like a very hopeless and worrisome phenomenon, and most times seems like a never-ending situation for those suffering from it. Addiction is characterized by overdependence on a particular substance or material. In this context, we are speaking about drugs, as a result of drug abuse. Though most times it may appear like those who are addicted to drugs are weak or lazy people, it is not the absolute truth as anybody can be addicted to drugs. That is because it has been observed that besides illegal drugs like cocaine, cannabis, and others, prescription drugs can also become a source of addiction unknowingly.
Recovering from drug addiction may seem like an uphill task for some, while some think that it is nearly impossible. Ordinarily, one should think of recovery as simply walking into a drug rehab center like Coastline Behavioral Health in Orange County, though this is not the only thing involved.
The Need To Recover From Drug Addiction
At a certain stage, despite being addicted to a particular drug, one may desire to be rid of it. And why not? The problems associated with drug addictions are many and so is the need to overcome them.
Drug addicts are usually seen as violent. This may be as a result of the drug, as at the moment it takes control of their bodies, and can alter their thoughts and actions. Long-term intake makes such behavior a part of the person. What worsens it is that at this point, such a person can no longer function without the drug, which makes their behavior all the more erratic.
People who are addicted to drugs more often than not have to rely on illegal activities to fund their daily supply. This is because most of the time, drug addicts are without jobs, as they may have lost their jobs due to the effects of the abuse.
So Let Us Get Into The Steps For Drug Addiction Recovery:
- Realization
Perhaps the very first step is in realizing that drug addiction is a problem for you, and others around you. Let’s face it, there’s nothing cool or nice about being dependent or ‘hooked’ on drugs. Becoming addicted to it is never a good thing. So for one to progress, they have to realize that addiction is indeed a problem and must be dealt with. Addiction recovery is a conscious effort as only you can inspire it. The ability to realize, and create a resolve solved half the problem, as the mind becomes prepared to achieve what it has set out to do.
- Drug Treatment Options
The next step is to look for a drug treatment option. Just as people are different, so are drug treatment options, as the treatment you require may be different from what another addict needs, probably owing to the extent of the addiction or the type of drug being abused. So you have to put things into perspective, including cost and distance, before making up your mind to walk into any drug rehab center.
Below Are Some Treatment Options:
- Inpatient Treatment
This requires being admitted and spending time in a facility. It includes, other than the treatment, staying within the facility with an accommodation provided during the course of treatment. Such an option is available in several drug rehab centers. This is usually an option best for those suffering severe addiction, or those who live with people who are capable of triggering their old life.
- Outpatient Treatment
This involves receiving the same treatment as an inpatient rehab, except a patient is allowed to go home, rather than reside inside the facility. This may be as a result of wanting to continue work or to reduce the total cost of rehab.
But it’s important that one opting for outpatient treatment must be careful not to stay around people or things that could trigger the use of drugs.
- Detoxification
This may usually be the first form of treatment. Detoxification involves getting rid of drug substances in the body. Patients are usually offered medication and other things to help with this, and sometimes there may be a fluid replacement. Detoxification is complete when there is no trace of the drug in the patient’s system.
- Staying Committed
In as much as you’re receiving treatment, you’re still susceptible to a relapse. So it’s necessary that you must stick to your resolve and completely try as much as possible to keep away from drugs. A very good way of achieving this is by moving into a ‘sober living community’. It’s a place for people recovering from drug addiction. Other than being completely rid of things that could trigger drug use, it also provides emotional support for those recovering, as they all work together to achieve a drug-free life.
- Have a Support System
Similar to moving into a sober living community, this involves having those who believe in your aim to stop drug use and abuse. This includes family members, friends, and colleagues. Having them believe in you and encourage you throughout your journey can help hasten the process, and make your stay astute in your resolve
- Get On With Life
Now that you’re recovering from drugs, pick up your life from wherever you stopped before the addiction. Maybe you were in school but dropped out, or bad a job, or divorced your spouse because they could not cope with you. Whatever it is, it does not matter. What matters is that you proceed with your life. Get back into college, try applying for other jobs, learn a new skill, take part in engaging activities. Just try to keep your mind busy, and be more useful to yourself.
