If you want something in life, you need a plan. Whether it’s a dream car purchase, a vacation of a lifetime, or accounting for the unexpected, you need a solid plan to make those things happen.
The same is true if you want to overcome drug addiction.
Being sober and living a lifetime doesn’t just happen; You need a redefined plan that will ensure your hard work for recovery doesn’t go to waste. This article will focus on simple but effective tips that you can use to create a rock-solid drug recovery plan.
A significant part of an addiction recovery program is engaging in evidence-based drug treatment programs like those at The Berman Center. The Berman Center is Atlanta’s premier outpatient mental health and addiction treatment facility, and we show you the programs, services, and support needed to put you on the path to lifelong wellness. Call us today to commit to your health and your future.
“Measure Twice, Cut Once”
In your life, you have probably heard the saying measure twice, cut once. Simply stated, you need to fully prepare and make plans in a manner that is well thought out. If you are struggling with substance abuse, you can’t just go into treatment and hope for the best. Taking that approach will only get you in trouble down the road and stuck in the vicious cycle of substance abuse.
While finding help is a top priority, you need to look before you leap. Taking the time to formulate a sound drug addiction recovery strategy increases the chances that you will complete treatment and stave off the triggers and cravings that accompany relapse. This will save you the money that you would be throwing down the drain due to multiple trips to rehab. Ultimately, having a solid plan with sound strategies in place boosts your confidence, and you become more motivated to work on a program of recovery when you are back at home.
What Are Effective Strategies You Can Employ to Overcome Drug Addiction?
If you are ready to embark on your journey towards lasting sobriety, what do you need to have in place to find long-term success? The following strategies will get you moving in the right direction:
Let’s get the obvious out of the way.
The best chance you have to overcome addiction is to undergo professional treatment at a drug rehab. While that is a no-brainer, you must choose your rehab wisely. You have unique needs, and rehabs that employ a “one size fits all” approach fail to fully address the totality of your addiction. Also, there are countless thousands of rehabs nationwide, and they all provide different programs and services.
What rehab is right for you?
Start by talking with your doctor or local addiction specialist. These professionals will provide suggestions and guide you to the treatment options that are best suited for you. When choosing a rehab, it needs to offer the following components:
- Medical detox
- Addiction counseling and therapy
- Life and coping skills training
- Nutrition counseling and support
- Exercise programs
- Access to community resources
Take the time to choose your treatment facility. Most importantly, be sure that the rehab you choose has multiple options to pay for treatment if your insurance doesn’t cover some services or if you are uninsured or underinsured.
Join a Support Group
Another great way to help you recover from addiction is to join a support group. The most commonly used groups are 12-step-based groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).In these groups, you will find inspiration and power from others who share similar experiences. Good alternative groups like SMART Recovery and LifeRing are also worth considering. Attend a few meetings and find one that suits you and your personality.
Build a Support Network
Along with attending a support group, you need to surround yourself with people who are fully behind your sobriety. Your support network can include family, friends, recovering peers, counselors, and other support people. Your support network provides you with safety and helps you celebrate your daily victories while holding you accountable when you fall short.
Engage in Hobbies
When you stop using substances, you will have more free time on your hands—and that could be a recipe for disaster. Fill your time wisely and find hobbies that you enjoy. These can include exercise, writing poetry, or taking up art or music to name a few. The healthier pursuits you find to fill your day, the better.
Practice Self-Care
To protect yourself and your sobriety, you need to learn to take care of yourself. Make sure you eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, stay hydrated, and get a good night’s sleep each night. It is also beneficial to engage in practices such as mindful meditation and yoga. Most importantly, have time during the day to put away your phones and tablets and have some “you time.”
Recovery Is A Reality With Help From The Berman Center
Your recovery doesn’t have to be a pipe dream. The first step in finding meaningful sobriety is undergoing treatment at a reputable rehab such as The Berman Center. Our Atlanta Intensive Outpatient Program is evidence-based and proven effective. Call us today and make your addiction issues an ancient history.
