The spiral of drug addiction is a very real issue, affecting nearly every aspect of your life. Fortunately, by seeking help and working proactively toward recovery, you can take control. Here are the five stages of addiction treatment and recovery, and why you shouldn’t do it alone. 

Stages of Substance Abuse Recovery

1. Acknowledging the Problem

Because being high can give you a false sense of security, it is important to recognize that you have a problem before beginning treatment. Think about how drugs have impacted your personal life, job, and overall health. If you aren’t sure, talk with family members, friends, and even your family doctor. Taking these steps can be painful, but it can help you stay motivated to seek treatment. 

2. Preparing for Treatment 

Before you enter treatment, it is important to shift from acknowledgment to action. Think about how addiction treatment could improve your life, and make arrangements to be away from work, school, and family. 

3. Entering Treatment 

During the early stages of treatment, you will be medically adapting to a life free from drugs. The detoxification process can be difficult, but medical professionals will carefully monitor your health and progress to keep you safe. Therapists will also be on hand to help you cope with the mental aspects of living without drugs. 

4. Learning Sobriety 

While you are in addiction treatment, you will learn important skills to help you continue to live drug-free. For instance, you will learn about your triggers and how to avoid them, as well as stress relief tactics to prevent using. 

5. Ongoing Maintenance 

The work continues after you leave addiction treatment since it is important to maintain your new lifestyle. Attending group meetings and individual therapy can help you recognize positive and negative actions, make friends who are dedicated to sobriety, and prevent relapses.

Choose to lead a happier, healthier life today by contacting NorthKey Community Care. In addition to working with individuals to overcome drug and alcohol abuse, this trusted mental health treatment center also helps people who need personal, couples, or family counseling. With locations throughout Northern Kentucky, their team wants to help you and your family find peace in recovery. Find out more about their approach to wellness and addiction treatment by visiting their website or calling (859) 331-3292.