How to beat addiction is a question that many people struggle with. Whether you’re trying to overcome an addiction for the first time, or have been struggling with one for years, it’s important to know how to get back on track and stay there. In this article we will cover 7 steps that can help you conquer your addictive behavior and live the life you deserve!
1. Accept That You Have A Problem
If you are addicted to something, it’s important to understand that there is no shame in admitting it and seeking help. In order to accept your addiction, all of the denial must be set aside. It might sound counterintuitive but accepting this problem actually allows for better progress farther down the road when taking steps towards overcoming addictive behavior patterns.
Remember that successfully beating an addiction requires both understanding that you have an issue and taking responsibility for overcoming it. This will allow you the space needed for healing, which we’ll get into next!
2. Get Professional Help
Many people who are facing addiction make the mistake of self-medicating or trying to quit by themselves. The problem with this is that you are more likely to relapse if you don’t get the help of a professional.
But what are the other benefits of seeking professional addiction treatment? Getting professional advice is one of the best ways to ensure you are on track with your recovery, and a therapist will be able to help you identify any factor that may have led you to your substance abuse problem.
The benefits of professional treatment is twofold: not only does it give you access to personalized attention from someone who understands what you’re going through, but it also gives you an opportunity for healing.
3. Be Receptive Of Treatment Methods
Admitting yourself to a rehab facility is not the end of the solution in itself. It’s important to be receptive to the treatment plan which means following the rules of the facility and becoming actively involved in group therapy sessions.
You have to be “all in” when it comes to receiving treatment because if you are not fully participative, this could backfire on you and you are just delaying your recovery.
4. Find a Support Network
It’s important to find a support group like joining a 12 step program like AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) or NA (Narcotics Anonymous) because this could help you find strength and comfort in the company of people who are going through the same thing.
Even when you’re already out of rehab and have completed your inpatient treatment, support groups can help you stay on track. Other benefits of support groups include the opportunity to share your story, the chance to be held accountable for sobriety and being able to help others who are struggling with addiction.
5. Recognize and Avoid Your Triggers
It’s not uncommon for people to relapse once they step out of rehab. Many people think that relapse is unavoidable, however, it is not impossible to stay sober for good. One way to do this is to recognize and avoid triggers that set you off.
To recognize your trigger, create an awareness list. Write out everything about yourself that contributes or could contribute towards creating bonds with substances (such as nicotine cigarettes) or behaviors (like gambling). Once these things are on paper, review them and see how many of them you can realistically change or avoid in the future.
This list will help you to understand what your triggers are and strengthen your commitment to quitting, because it’s easier to say no when faced with a temptation if there is a plan for how one will respond.
6. Practice Self-Care
An excellent way to avoid relapse is by practicing self-care activities. Examples of these self-care activities include exercise, healthy eating habits and meditation. These activities are crucial to keep you from relapsing because they help boost your mood so that the addictive thoughts will not have as much of an influence on your life.
Exercise, for instance, releases endorphins which in turn keeps depression at bay and boosts concentration levels. It also provides a sense of accomplishment when it is done regularly. Healthy food increases dopamine levels which makes us feel happier while decreasing cravings for unhealthy foods such as sugar or fast-foods.
Meditation, on the other hand, helps clear our mind by calming the parts of the brain associated with stress and anxiety thereby reducing obsessive behavior such as relapsing into addiction due to overwhelming emotions like anger or sadness. Don’t feel guilty about prioritizing yourself because doing so will help you stay sober.
7. Continue To Work on Your Recovery
Staying sober is an ongoing process. It is not an instant fix. You have to continuously work on your recovery to avoid addiction again. Yes, it will not be easy but the rewards are worth it.
Find ways that you can enjoy life without substances or other forms of addiction. Get new hobbies, learn new skills, and spend more time with your friends. It is also important to get rid of negative thoughts that might be holding you back in life or sabotaging your recovery. Focus on self-improvement and take your recovery one step at a time.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.
Contact Anaheim Lighthouse today.
