How To Be Successful in Detox and Recovery

Congratulations on your decision to make a change and get help for your drug and/or alcohol addiction! You have struggled with substance abuse for a long time and you are ready to enter detox and to begin a life in recovery. It is time to push the negative thoughts and fear out of your mind and focus on a healthier and happier you. To get you started, here are a few tips on how to be successful in detox and recovery. Committed to the Long Haul The number one reason why most people do not successfully complete detox is because they do not stay for the process to be completed. Either they decide along the way that they don’t need it – that their substance abuse is not that bad – or that they feel great after a few days and decide that they do not need to stay any longer. The fact is that detox serves a purpose in the first step to recovery. Detox removes the toxic chemicals from your body that are the result of your drug and alcohol abuse. You will need to stay in the facility for a specific length of time for the process to be completed. If you leave early, your chances of recovery success are diminished significantly and your chance for relapse is greatly improved. Helpful tip… stay until the detox is complete! Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms Withdrawal symptoms are part of the detox process and some people experience stronger symptoms than others. Withdrawal symptoms differ depending on the type of substance abuse and severity. The detox facility you choose will have a specific method for dealing with withdrawal symptoms. Medical detox, especially IV therapy medical detox seems to be the method most preferred method because it helps to keep the patient comfortable throughout the process as it immediately deals with withdrawal symptoms. Take Advantage of the Time to Rest and Regroup Your stay in a detox center will last anywhere from a few days to a couple weeks, depending on the type of substance use. Detoxification is a chance to cleanse your mind and body. It is a chance to talk out your frustrations, address your fears and to consider setting new goals. First Step Detox… Second Step Rehab and Support Recovery is a life-long process. Most people think that they can go to detox, get clean and viola…they are cured. But, what happens the first time they are around their drinking or drugging friends, or drugs and alcohol? Sadly, they slip back into the same patterns and habits. Entering a rehab or community support program, such as a 12 Step group can help you learn ways to deal with triggers as they come and stay strong in recovery. New Chapter… New Habits As you begin to build a new life for yourself that does not include drugs and alcohol, consider news ways to spend your time. Take a culinary class, learn to play golf or join a walking group. Changing your habits will help keep you in a positive frame of mind and you might make a few new friends along the way!