The general addiction recovery process includes detoxification (detox), followed by behavioral therapy or counseling, which will address the emotional and psychological aspects of the disease. Finally, the recovery process is achieved through medically supervised withdrawal-management treatment, which can include medication and psychosocial interventions.
Addiction’s devastating effects on individuals and society have been well documented. But there is hope. The five stages of addiction recovery show the rough path addicts must take to recover from addiction and live a productive, healthy life free from the grip of their drug or alcohol use.
- Denial Stage
The first stage is denial, where addicts try to ward off any thought that they are an addict by denying their problem and themselves and others. It’s important to note that at this stage, many addicts cannot see that they have any power over their choices or behavior. They usually consider themselves normal despite tumultuous relationships with drugs or alcohol and disregard the need for professional help.
- Contemplation Stage
The contemplation stage, the second stage of addiction recovery, marks the first step toward recovery. Addicts come to realize that they have a problem and admit it. Now that they know the situation, it’s time to take control by seeking professional help.
This may be the most challenging step for addicts because many feel like they need their alcohol or drugs to deal with stress daily. Mcshin Foundation has an excellent recovery program for people looking to change their life.
- Resistance Stage
Addicts usually undergo two stages of resistance to change: extreme and relative resistance, before they can progress into action. The third stage is relative resistance, in which they demonstrate a solid commitment to change.
They may even take steps to isolate themselves from people and situations that fuel their addiction. Fortunately, with treatment and counseling, addicts will learn to live again without substance abuse.
- Action Stage
After addicts complete their contemplation, reasoning, and commitment stages of recovery, it’s time for action. At this point, addicts realize they need professional help to get off drugs or alcohol. They’ve determined that they are powerless over alcohol or drugs and are prepared to take all necessary steps toward sobriety, such as attending group therapy sessions.They have transformed from the set of relative resistance into the scene of action.
- Maintenance Stage
The results of addiction recovery are usually measured by the individual’s ability to remain sober. Addicts will enter the maintenance stage after completing treatment and recovering from addiction. This stage allows addicts to live alcohol and drug-free for the rest of their lives. Recovering addicts can often return to school, enter a sustainable career, and recover from damaged relationships. In addition, their health will likely improve, as drugs or alcohol no longer influences them.
The five stages of addiction recovery give recovering addicts a visual guide to follow as they transition through life after addiction. Addiction treatment takes time and patience, but addicts can be sure that recovery is worthwhile. The benefits of addiction recovery will last a lifetime. Addiction recovery is your other chance at life with a healthier and more positive approach.
