Overcoming substance abuse is a long, difficult process. Many addicts or alcoholics know their lives will be happier if they stop using or drinking, but are unsure of what to expect during the treatment process.
Treatment for an addiction typically involves a number of stages or steps. The most common stages of addiction treatment you will see include:
Step One: Detoxification
Also called detox, this is the period in which the patient is weaned off of the substance they are addicted to. It involves gradually removing the substance from the body. Because it can be dangerous and is both mentally as well as physically exhausting and demanding, it is usually done in an inpatient treatment center under the watchful eye of medical professionals. During detox, patients experience withdrawal symptoms like shaking, vomiting, and cravings. They may also be irritable or anxious.
Step Two: Support
Once the detox is complete, the patient must then develop new habits and thought patterns to help them get back to life without depending on drugs and alcohol. This involves support from a number of different sources. The patient’s support network will probably include family members, close friends, counselors and therapists, support groups, and a sponsor. The support network will help the patient steer clear of old habits and friends and get help with underlying issues that may have caused them to turn to drugs or alcohol in the first place.
Step Three: Abstinence and Maintenance
The final ongoing step of drug or alcohol addiction treatment is to abstain from the substance for good. This helps the patient not be tempted to relapse back into old habits, and it also gives them a feeling of control over their lives.
Addiction can be overcome with the right treatment plan and support network.