March 10, 2023Tyler Collins
Everyone experiences addiction differently and the process of recovery can be a difficult journey. It’s easy to become frustrated or fall back into old habits when progress isn’t being made as quickly as you’d like. However, it’s important to remember that success in overcoming addiction takes time and effort.
While relapse is often said to be a part of the recovery process, repeated relapse can be extremely frustrating. Perhaps it was not your intention, but it seems like you can’t help it when you feel the urge. So, what exactly are you doing wrong?
If you’re feeling like you’re stuck in a cycle of relapsing, here are some common mistakes during the addiction recovery process. This could explain why some drug or alcohol addicts keep relapsing despite the best efforts.
1. Not Seeking Addiction Treatment
It’s not enough just to stop using alcohol or drugs.. Professional treatment programs are necessary for long-term success in recovery from substance abuse disorders. Depending on the substance, you have to take part in a treatment plan that will cater to the underlying causes of addiction.
Look for programs that cater specifically to addiction treatment. They should offer specialized services such as counseling, detoxification, therapy, support groups and aftercare services. At the Lighthouse Treatment Center, our evidence-based approach aims to provide the best environment for successful recovery.
2. Not Facing Your Mental Health Issues
Addiction is often linked with other mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. This condition is called co-occurring disorder and will need dual diagnosis treatment for full recovery.
In order to truly overcome your addiction, it’s essential to work on these issues at the same time as your addiction. To do this, consider seeing a dual diagnosis therapist or counselor. They can help provide guidance while working through these difficult emotions.
3. Ignoring Your Loved Ones
Family members and friends can play an important role in the recovery process even if they don’t understand what you’re going through completely. Loved ones can provide emotional support and accountability.
If you isolate yourself from those who care about you, the chances of relapsing increases significantly. So don’t be afraid to reach out for help from family and friends. It can make a huge difference in your progress.
4. Returning to Your Past Substance Use Environment
Maintaining distance from old triggers such as locations where drugs or alcohol were used before is key in avoiding relapse. This is especially important during the first stages of sobriety. Avoid returning to previous drug or alcohol hangouts and try going to new places instead.
Look for activities that focus on self-care rather than partying or socializing in high risk environments like clubs or bars. Explore sober hobbies like sports, arts, or music. You can even try something completely out of your comfort zone such as rock climbing or skydiving.
5. Not Utilizing Support Groups
Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can be essential parts of staying sober during early sobriety. When withdrawal symptoms tend to be strongest and cravings most overwhelming, be with supportive people.
These groups allow people in recovery to come together for fellowship. They can also help you build relationships with other people who understand what it’s like living with an addiction disorder. By being with supportive networks, you may never have to feel alone during your journey.
6. Trying Too Hard To Control Feelings
You may be trying to ignore natural feelings associated with early sobriety such as sadness, anxiety, etc. However, trying too hard will just increase feelings of helplessness and despair. This often leads you back towards drugs or alcohol when struggling through tough times.
That’s why finding healthier ways of dealing with stressors is an important part of any relapse prevention plan. Therapies like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) can help you focus on learning to modify troubling emotions productively rather than suppressing them.
7. Thinking Sobriety Is A “Cure All” Solution
The truth is that getting sober doesn’t suddenly make all problems magically disappear overnight. Sobering up isn’t the end goal but, rather, the beginning. Addiction recovery is usually a much longer healing process. It involves coming to terms with struggles faced due prior substance abuse and understanding the roots of addiction.
That’s why it’s important to consult with a professional addiction rehab center. They can help you so you can work toward long-term recovery and successful sobriety.
If you’re struggling with addiction relapse in Orange County, California, contact Lighthouse Treatment for help.
