People often wonder if there is a one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. Many will try to look through Google, searching for “steps to recovery” as though there is simply a checklist that will help them get through recovery without effort. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Each recovery step requires discipline, commitment, and hard work to see it through. However, the rewards of recovery far outweigh the effort involved. Living with addiction is much more harmful to a person’s physical and mental health, both in the short term and in the long run.
If you are struggling with a substance use disorder and want to break free to live a healthier and happier life, Ashwood Recovery is here to help. We understand that admitting that you have a substance use disorder can be very difficult, especially with the stigma surrounding these types of conditions. Our addiction recovery professionals treat every patient with the respect and care they deserve. For guidance regarding the stages of recovery or to learn about what we offer, you can contact Ashwood Recovery at 888.341.3607.
The First Step to Recovery
There is a wide range of reasons for a person to become addicted to drugs or alcohol, and it follows that there is a wide range of approaches to recovery. We always hear people say that the first step in recovery is admitting you are addicted to drugs or alcohol. Many people deny the reality of their substance abuse and refuse to see how damaging it is to themselves and the people around them. Breaking through this denial is a powerful first step and allows a person to clearly see for the first time just how their life is affected by their substance use disorder.
While the first step to recovery is clear, putting this knowledge into practice is different. Denial warps a person’s ability to view reality objectively and may cause them to ignore the signs of addiction completely. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of addiction can help make this process easier, as you’ll have clear evidence of a substance use disorder and can begin to take steps toward recovery.
The Signs of Addiction
Addiction is a disease that can change how a person’s brain works. Thankfully, it’s a disease that recovery professionals can treat. Recognizing when someone is in the grip of addiction can help save their life, as the increasing demands of addiction can have severe physical and mental health consequences. Some of the key signs of addiction include:
- Blacking out from drug or alcohol use
- Drug or alcohol use interfering with day-to-day life
- Experiencing sudden mood swings, paranoia, or irritability
- Hiding the drug or alcohol use from loved ones and friends
- Being overcome with obsessive thoughts about using drugs or alcohol
- Not being able to stop using drugs or alcohol, even though they want to
- Increased tolerance to drugs or alcohol
The more signs and symptoms a person identifies with, the more likely they struggle with a substance use disorder, even if they try to downplay the fact.
How Can Ashwood Recovery Help?
The first step to recovery is to admit you have a substance use disorder. After that, the long recovery journey may have setbacks and relapses. This path can be intimidating for many people, so Ashwood Recovery offers guidance throughout a patient’s entire journey toward recovery. Recovery is a process, not a singular event.
Our professional drug and alcohol rehab centers offer the following support throughout the recovery process:
- Education – The patient will learn about their addiction and gain new coping skills and techniques to minimize the risk of relapse.
- Peer support – Staff and other patients in therapy will offer a friendly, supportive community that understands the patient’s situation and gives them the guidance they need to stay sober.
- Evidence-based holistic therapies – Clinically proven therapies will provide the patient the tools they need to make positive changes in their life.
- Personal treatment plan – Each patient gets a personalized treatment plan that considers their individual needs and preferences, resulting in more effective and comfortable treatment.
Begin Healing at Ashwood Recovery
Ashwood Recovery offers drug and alcohol treatment in an outpatient program, an intensive outpatient program (IOP), and a partial hospitalization program (PHP). These options allow you to live at home while starting your recovery journey, giving you the care you need while still supporting your family. Our mission is to help everyone with their addiction, no matter their background or circumstances. Find out more about how we can help you heal by calling us at 888.341.3607.