The 4-Step Process for Overcoming Addiction and Substance Abuse

When we talk about addiction and substance abuse, the two substances that come to mind are drug and alcohol. Generally, these substances include tobacco, marijuana, and cocaine. For a fact, illicit drug use in the United States is on the increase. Results of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) 2013 annual National Survey on Drug Use and Health revealed that, an estimated 24.6 million Americans aged 12 or older had used an illicit drug in the past month. Not only that, an estimated 28.7 million people had driven under the influence of alcohol at least once in the past year, and an estimated 55.8 million Americans aged 12 or older were current cigarette smokers. These figures are a cause for serious concern because of the increase in cases of mental health disorders such as impaired reasoning, depression, and psychosis etc. Furthermore, a large percentage of suicide cases have been linked with mental health disorders. Therefore, treatment for these conditions requires an equal level of aggressiveness from rehab centers and individuals suffering them. Here’s the 4-step process required to overcome addiction and substance abuse. Admit and change The first step is to admit that you have addiction problems and that it’s killing you. What this typically does is to prepare your mind psychologically for the rehabilitation process that would follow. Again, make a resolve to change your lifestyle for good. It might be difficult, and you might find yourself going back to it once in a while, but doing this gets your problems half-solved. Seek help It’s a great disservice if you think you can this challenge on your own. You need to seek help from the people around you. Talk to them and they’ll give you the required support. In addition, you need to form a new social group, get involved in social activities and, if possible, move to a sober living home or a drug-free living environment. Visit a rehab center Visiting a rehab center is, no doubt, an effective step in your addiction recovery process. Nationwide, 681,374 people were admitted to treatment centers in 2012 citing alcohol as a singular or confounding problem. In Arizona, 8,294 of these people were admitted to Arizona rehab centers. There are three main procedures involved in most rehabilitation programs: detox, substance abuse therapy and aftercare. Get more information about rehab centers here. Learn how to cope with stress It’s quite possible to still experience conditions such as stress even during therapy. You must come to terms with the fact that going back to the old way of relieving stress with drugs and alcohol will only aggravate your situation or delay your recovery process. Instead, engage in productive activities like participating in sporting activities, exercise, enjoying nature, and playing with your pets. These natural ways are effective in the elimination of stress. Conclusion A rehab process will never be successful if you do not watch out for the trigger factors. You must compel yourself to avoid things that could lead you back to your addiction. Avoid friends who still use drugs, stop attending bars, and be careful with prescription drugs.