Too many people around the world suffer from addiction, or substance use disorders, with addiction impacting nearly every aspect of a person’s life. Addiction hijacks the user’s life, leaving a person feeling like they have little control and have no way of escaping the downward spiral. If you’re struggling with addiction, it can be difficult to comprehend how you can break free and live a life in sustained sobriety. But it’s important to remember that, while your addiction may seem all-encompassing, there is a path to lasting recovery and a better life.
The first thing you need to do to break free from addiction is to recognize that you have a problem. Admitting to yourself and to your family and friends that you need help can be difficult, but is a pivotal step in recovery. You will need to accept that you have a problem and be willing to seek the assistance and guidance that addiction recovery requires.
The second step is to seek professional help. Reaching out to a qualified addiction specialist or attending a substance abuse rehabilitation program can provide you with the assistance and support needed to make successful strides towards recovery. Not only is it important that you have specialists’ guidance and expertise, but also support from peers who have gone through the recovery process. It can be difficult to realize that you’re not alone in your struggles; having a support group of similar people can be an incredibly powerful and comforting step to take during treatment.
Third, create a treatment plan, and stick to it. Once you’ve identified your addiction and have assembled a team of specialists and peers to help you, form a comprehensive treatment plan that explains how you will work towards continual sobriety. Your plan should outline goals, the kind of support you need, and expectations of self and others. Also be sure to incorporate daily affirmations into your plan; these positive messages and reminders can help reinforce why you are on the path to recovery and how far you’ve come.
Finally, choose to make healthy activities and habits a part of your new life. When one is attempting to break free from addiction, replacing the negative behavior with healthy activities and habits is key to sustaining sobriety. Find activities that bring you pleasure and make a daily effort to stay committed. Exercise, connecting with nature or cycling could be the perfect replacements. Also, make sure to set goals for yourself each day, week, and month as a means of keeping yourself accountable.
Breaking free from addiction can be a daunting undertaking, but it can be done. You don’t have to face this journey alone; addiction specialists, family, friends and peers are available to provide support along the way. And by recognizing your addiction, reaching out for professional help, creating a treatment plan and making healthy habits a part of your life, you’ll be taking the necessary steps to ensure lasting recovery for yourself.