Drug addiction is a treatable disorder and one can achieve long-term sobriety. Research on addiction has led to the development of various treatments that help people maintain sobriety. The treatments help individuals to progress on the road to recovery and resume productive lives. It is a common belief that one can manage addictions. However, the relapse rate from drug and alcohol addiction is high. Individuals who seek professional help for overcoming the addictions and continue following their “aftercare” are more likely to sustain long-time sobriety. During their treatment, drug addicts are taught to make specific variations in their lifestyles. They are also trained to gain skills and obtain tools that help them to sustain their sobriety.
Although living with sobriety can be quite challenging, many factors can help an individual to sustain sobriety. Important factors on how to maintain sobriety are as mentioned below:
Willingness to Change
Willingness to change is the most critical factor for individuals to get their life back on track. It may be hard for the affected individual, but it proves to be beneficial as it is their choice and not a forced decision. Life is difficult for the individual when they are in the deciding process as the urge to continue drug use is stronger than quitting it. Underlying conditions like anxiety and depression make them more susceptible to avoiding treatment. The willingness to change includes an individual’s keenness to be physically present for treatment. It also means that the person is ready to listen and bring the changes in their lifestyle.
The support from their respective families and friends plays a pivotal role. However, the ultimate decision to be ready to change relies only on the agonized individual. Keeping an open mind for the treatment options and giving adequate time for the treatment ensures recovery and personal growth.
Getting Social & Community
Research indicates social and community support as a powerful and beneficial force for long-lasting sobriety. Addiction recovery is an intense, life-changing process that is different for every individual. Hence, the road to recovery would be attainable with the support of like-minded individuals.
Those in recovery need a lot of emotional strength and encouragement during the challenging recovery period. The individuals in recovery must develop a sense of hope and stay positive in difficult circumstances. Social and Community support eases to attain back their original identity and familiarity. Attending recovery meetings with those in recovery, getting a sponsor, or enrolling in short-term courses about sober living proves beneficial for recovery.
Self Efficacy
Self-efficacy is belief in one’s self to overcome challenges during recovery. Many individuals agree to the treatment with a reluctant mind. They are not sure whether they will change and be well off after their treatment. This apprehension limits their chances for long-term sobriety.
On the other hand, individuals with self-efficacy have confidence in their abilities. They succeed because of their firm belief that they can get sober, adapt, and sustain a new lifestyle. Previous negative experiences in treatment reduce the confidence of many individuals. Self-efficacy increases the likelihood of an individual to continue with the appropriate behavior. It allows them to stay in high spirits and continue making positive choices in the future too.
Mental Health Treatment
There is a strong connection between sobriety, mental health, and substance addiction. Substance use appears to be an easy solution for those who are struggling with depression. These substances subside the emotional pain and bring about a sense of happiness. Thus, the individuals turn to these substances for relief. Hence, untreated mental illness may result in relapse.
Therefore, the mental health condition of an individual under treatment must never be ignored. It is necessary that an individual battling with mental disorders continue with the necessary therapies and medications even after their treatment is over. Appropriate treatment of addiction and regular sessions for an individual’s mental health proves helpful for sustaining long-term sobriety.
Self Care
Self-care in long-term recovery from addiction is crucial to long-term sobriety. Self-care implies taking time to take care of your overall well-being. As individuals progress in their recovery, they must become aware of their mental, physical and emotional means. Physical and mental well-being influences an individual’s long-term sobriety. For instance, if an individual is not taking in adequate nutrients, they would experience mood swings and will be low on energy.
Likewise, if an individual is not devoting enough time to physical activities such as exercises, personal hygiene, and sleeping habits, they likely feel bored and unfulfilled. Self-care habits not only help an individual to overcome addiction but also prevent relapse. It is also less likely that they may fall back to their old ways. Hence, prioritizing self-care aids in building an incredible relationship with themselves.
Purpose
After addiction, it is taxing and difficult for individuals to start afresh. Many individuals have feelings of lowness and self-doubts. A sense of purpose and feeling satisfied in life is important for long-term sobriety. one can attain this by involving themselves in voluntary activities and seeking employment. The individuals should also consider enrolling themselves in sober living and aftercare programs. These programs help individuals to re-enter and be part of society. They encourage individuals to get involved in social activities.
They also provide employment assistance and certified peer recovery support. These programs also assist an individual in developing healthy relationships with friends, family, and neighbors.
Treatment Participation and Motivation
An individual’s level of participation and sobriety motivation to sustain after treatment plays an important role in their success. Successful completion of treatment is a tough job. It requires consistency, dedication, and physical and mental effort from an individual. Positive results are noticed and achieved during the treatment process. However, continual effort is required from the individuals to sustain and reap their benefits.
Individuals who continue treatment for the recommended period, follow medical instructions after treatment, and implement strategies to cope with confusing feelings influence long-term success in recovery.
Get Affiliated With Recovery Program
Getting involved in recovery programs such as 12 step AA & NA helps individuals maintain sobriety even after treatment is over. These programs provide long-lasting results as it keeps reinforcing the progress. The support from these associations keeps the individuals motivated and helps in recovering from the addiction.
Conclusion
Getting through addiction treatment and post-treatment is one of the hardest things for an individual who was a drug addict in the past. Post-treatment, long-term sobriety is only possible when the individual follows all the instructions given by their respective counselors. They must develop an optimistic attitude that would slowly but surely bring positive changes in their daily behavior.
By incorporating minor changes such as being honest with themselves and others, meditation and exercises may help them use their coping mechanisms rightfully. Individuals may experience relapse before achieving long-term sobriety. One can achieve sobriety with self-discipline, and motivation, and encouragement from society.