The task of recovery can seem less daunting if you follow the steps to recovery from alcoholism.If you've considered that you might have an addiction to...
The task of recovery can seem less daunting if you follow the steps to recovery from alcoholism.
If you've considered that you might have an addiction to alcohol that's causing you distress at work or with your family, you've already taken the first step!
Congratulations, because many people find it difficult to admit they have an issue with it.
According to a 2019 report, only 10% of people with alcohol use disorders end up receiving any treatment.
Reaching out for treatment if you realize you have an alcohol use disorder could be one of the best decisions you ever make.
This article will outline seven essential steps to recovery from alcoholism that, if implemented in your life, will significantly improve your chances of a successful recovery.
Alcoholism is a lifelong battle, just like any other physical illness.
However, if you stay vigilant, things can get better.
Relapse is possible, but you must go back to step one and begin again until recovery becomes a long-term way of life.
Let's get started with the steps.
Admitting to yourself that there is a problem is the first step toward a successful recovery from alcoholism.
For example, suppose you've been fired several times for missing work or showing up reeking of alcohol.
You may not be able to make it through an eight-hour shift without a drink because you will begin to shake and sweat.
Perhaps you got divorced because they told you to choose between them and the drink, and you chose the drink.
Whatever reasoning led to your decision, once you admit that you may have an alcohol problem, you are ready to move on to the following steps to recovery from alcoholism.
Now that you've admitted you have a drinking problem; the next step is to consider seeking help.
First, you may be considering praying to a higher power to remove your desire to drink completely.
This second step is critical in the recovery process.
You recognize that you have an alcohol problem when you see the devastation in your life that has resulted from the use of alcohol.
Also, you know the impact it has on those around you.
For many people, the effect of their drinking on others is the deciding factor in seeking treatment for their addiction.
The third step is to take action.
Taking action can include things like:
At this stage in the process, you have made a firm decision to do something about the alcohol addiction in your life.
The next step, detox, could be the most frightening for many struggling with alcoholism.
When it comes to alcohol, detoxification can be dangerous, even fatal, depending on the person and the severity of the addiction.
Detoxing in a medical setting is the best option.
For about 5-7 days, medical detox in a facility, usually a hospital, will monitor your vitals around the clock.
This level of care will help with the withdrawal and delirium tremens.
In addition, medical professionals will give medication.
The following are some examples of alcohol withdrawal symptoms:
Giving up alcohol cold turkey at home is generally risky and not recommended.
A person's chances of relapsing during a cold-turkey detox at home are also significantly increased.
Detoxification from alcohol is usually complete after about a week, and some form of recovery program will be in place to help someone stay on track after a detox.
Before someone leaves a detox facility, they are generally placed in an inpatient, residential, or outpatient treatment program in the steps to recovery from alcoholism.
After detox, the next step is to start a recovery program. Inpatient, residential, or outpatient treatment options are available.
Regardless of which path you take; group and individual therapy and medications are usually implemented.
For example, doctors may prescribe the following drugs during this stage of recovery:
The treatment program at this stage could last anywhere from 28 days to two years, depending on the severity.
However, of the steps to recovery from alcoholism, the recovery program is possibly the most important.
When someone relapses, it's because they didn't take this step seriously enough and didn't have a treatment plan in place to prevent it.
You would transition back home after treatment but continue recovery counseling or medications.
One of the reasons that it is crucial when you go back home to continue these practices from your recovery plan is that the real world is the true test of your sobriety.
Therefore, an arsenal of preventative measures to keep you focused is essential when you come back to the real world.
Maintenance is the step where you put your plan of action to work in the real world.
You maintain your sobriety.
Each maintenance plan will vary from person to person.
Some things people could do in this stage include the following:
It becomes more manageable when you break down the steps to recovery from alcoholism.
Change can be scary but living in the grips of all-consuming alcohol addiction is much more dangerous.
Your loved ones would all agree that having "you" back is well worth all the work you will put into your recovery for it to be successful.
If you or someone you love is suffering from alcoholism, reach out to a therapist today to start your journey to a better future.
https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-facts-and-statistics
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/gaba-uses-and-risks
The best way to help an addict without enabling them is by setting boundaries and getting help for yourself. It is important to remember that you cannot control the addict's behavior, but you can offer support and understanding. With time and patience, you can help your loved one recover from addiction.
Some resources for family members of addicts include therapy, counseling, 12-step programs, and other support groups. It is important to seek out these resources to get the tools you need to deal with your loved one's addiction. You can also find help for yourself through these resources.
Treatment for alcohol abuse often includes counseling, support groups, and medication. With the right help, your spouse can recover from alcoholism and go on to lead a healthy and happy life.
Staying sober is not a one-time thing; it’s a long-term commitment. Counseling helps you build a strong foundation for your recovery, like reinforcing the base of a house. We’ll help you develop skills to manage cravings, avoid relapse triggers, and navigate the daily stresses of life without turning to drugs. We’ll also help you create a network of support so you can continue to feel seen and heard on your journey. We believe in your capacity to lead a life of lasting recovery.
Sometimes, telling the difference between alcohol abuse and alcoholism can feel like looking at two seemingly similar roads. Alcohol abuse is the detour—a pattern of drinking that causes problems in your life, like missing work or making poor decisions. Alcoholism, now known as alcohol use disorder, is more like a new, unwanted destination. It's a chronic disease where drinking becomes a compulsive need you feel you can't control, with a physical and psychological dependence. We can work together to help you find your way back to your intended path.
