Treatment, Support, Life

For many years I hid behind a facade. I lived a life not known by many that took havoc on my physical and emotional well-being. I guess you could say it was my choice in the matter, but it was far too difficult and complicated to break loose. When I finally let the cat out of the bag so to speak, I felt a sense of relief and encouragement. However, I still have that preconceived notion in the back of my mind that states, “watch out for judgment.” 

Society’s stigmas are often harsh and negative, especially when it comes to drugs and alcohol. One who is an addict is frequently labeled with unfavorable jargon. Words and feelings expressed to an addict can have an impact on their addiction and the recovery process. Positive reinforcement and support lets one know that they can gain their life back with the right treatment. 

Treatment, support, life is a 3-step process that allows an addict to obtain a sober way of living. Treatment is the first step to any recovery process. One who is severely addicted may have to start the treatment process detoxing in a hospital setting. Alcoholics tend to detox worse than any other drug addict. Complications from detox include mild effects such as sweats and nausea and more severe reactions like seizures. A person going through what is known as the DT’s can simply die from it. One should not detox on their own. 

Once a person is fully detoxed, the treatment process continues. Group therapy, individual therapy, and 12 step programs are recommended for individuals with addiction. Inpatient and outpatient rehab is available as well. Both offer a patient a way to learn certain tool to cope with addiction. Those tools are important to maintain a sober lifestyle. 

When the individual is finished with treatment, further treatment and support is encouraged to keep a person living a clean life. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), psychological therapy, sober living, etc… all help a person on a successful journey. It is very crucial that the addict following their aftercare plan. If they stray, the likelihood of relapsing is at a high rate. 

With treatment, along with continued support, the addict can start living the sober life they so hoped for. It is not an easy road by any means. It will be a challenge. There will be major ups and downs. Relapse is a very big possibility, especially once the addict is introduced back into their regular living environment. Temptation is all around us. However, if one sticks to their aftercare plan and continues to try and overcome obstacles one can make it out alive.