How to Start SUD Recovery: Taking the Big Step
Admit the Problem
Admitting that you have a problem with addiction is an essential step in recovery. It means being honest about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors around alcohol or drugs. Many still choose to live in denial because of shame, fear, or the need to cope with life via substances. Nonetheless, admitting the problem allows people to take responsibility and understand how they got into this situation. Such a step will lead to facing the feelings and thoughts that trigger your substance use.
The first step to recovery can be difficult, but it will make all other efforts much easier; there’s no way out without taking accountability for your actions! Additionally, it allows for an open dialogue about how substance abuse affects you emotionally, physically, spiritually, and mentally. Many people find it helpful to share these struggles with someone they trust who has been through similar experiences or can offer support during this time of transition.
Take the Initiative
Though you may find the initial stage of recovery overwhelming, start with small goals. Consider getting away from any environment connected to your substance use—like bars, clubs, toxic friendships, or relationships. Doing so will make it easier for you to focus on yourself during this difficult time. Next, consider joining a recovery support group near you or online. To get started, SMART Recovery, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) websites list meeting locations and online meetings.
Talking with other people dealing with the same problems can be invaluable on your recovery journey. It can provide you with different perspectives on addiction and how others have recovered. Support groups provide a forum for sharing your experiences and listening to others share theirs. Plus, they provide sober tracking and socializing opportunities without drinking or using substances.
Lastly, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National (SAMHSA) Helpline for treatment referral and information 24/7.
Find Professional Help: Therapy and Doctors
Once you’ve decided to start recovery, you’ll need to find a professional who can help. Consider talking to your primary care provider for guidance. In some cases, doctors will prescribe medications as part of your recovery process. Doctors can also give you referrals for therapists who specialize in addiction counseling. Specific therapeutic approaches are effective in treating addiction. For instance, consider searching for therapists that offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or trauma-focused care. If you need further consideration, a therapist can refer you to a suitable treatment center or help you with your search. For instance, you can find support through inpatient treatment centers that offer detoxification and rehabilitation programs. Don’t hesitate to do some research for other resources. Check out SAMHSA’s website for a treatment center or treatment program.
When it comes time to seek out the right professionals, it’s essential to be an active participant in your recovery process. You want to make sure that the person or organization you contact is qualified and capable of providing the support they advertise before signing up for anything. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for help from doctors or therapists, having access to these professionals does make a difference in your success rate in recovery.
Assess the Underlying Mental Health Issues
As the number of mental health issues continues to increase, Americans turn to different coping methods to deal with the symptoms of mental health disorders. Common underlying mental health disorders are obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Especially when left undiagnosed or untreated, these underlying mental health issues may lead someone to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol for temporary relief. Often, these substances affect the receptors in your brain and cause them to adapt to the drug. Over time, this adaptation can lead to changes in your mood or behavior.
If you suspect that there may be underlying mental disorders contributing to your addiction, don’t hesitate to talk to a professional about getting tested for these disorders. They will be able to provide you with more information about your condition and help you find the right treatment plan to address both SUD and mental health issues.
Check In to Drug Rehab
One of the most effective treatments for SUD is going to drug rehab. Good rehabilitation programs often offer medication-assisted therapy, medically-supervised detoxes, cognitive behavioral therapy, support groups, educational counseling, family counseling services, and holistic therapies like yoga or meditation. Additionally, some facilities offer you a choice between intensive outpatient programs that you can do while working or attending school. You might choose inpatient addiction treatment that will require you to stay at a facility for an extended period.
While there are many ways to start the recovery process, one of the most critical pieces is getting the proper support. Some people need professional help to get their lives back on track. Others may choose a 12-Step program or therapy as part of their sobriety and mental health wellness journey. Some might want additional support from friends and family members during this difficult time. It takes a lot of courage to ask for help and accept treatment or therapy, but it’s worth it. By taking this first step, you’ll be on the path to wellness and happiness. Restoration Recovery can help you get started with your recovery. We offer a variety of programs for addiction and mental health that include group counseling sessions, individual therapy sessions, educational counseling, and holistic services. We help our participants achieve happy lives free from substance abuse or other unhealthy behaviors. To learn more about our program, contact us at (888) 290-0925.
