Going through the treatment process only to relapse quickly afterwards is a common story in the recovery community. We often think that once we detox and receive therapy in treatment, we are “cured” of our addiction and can move forward in our lives without ever using drugs or alcohol again. This misconception is often the reason why many men and women find themselves back in the painful cycle of addiction once again after leaving treatment. Addiction is a chronic disease that can be successfully managed, but there is no cure. The National Institute on Drug Abuse explains, “The chronic nature of the disease means that relapsing to drug abuse at some point is not only possible, but likely. Relapse rates (i.e., how often symptoms recur) for people with addiction and other substance use disorders are similar to relapse rates for other well-understood chronic medical illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma, which also have both physiological and behavioral components.” Successful management of addiction requires adhering to a recovery program after treatment and continuing to follow the suggestions of those who have successfully overcome addiction and alcoholism. We often feel better physically and mentally after treatment and may take our newfound happiness as a sign that we have overcome addiction. Without continuing to manage our disease with a recovery program, however, we will quickly find ourselves consumed by the same thoughts and behaviors that were present when we were using alcohol and drugs. The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous explains, “It is easy to let up on the spiritual program of action and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if we do, for alcohol is a subtle foe. What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition.” Overcoming addiction and alcoholism means that every day we do our best to live by the principles of recovery or we may risk lapsing back into the same behaviors that had previously exacerbated our addiction. Daily management of addiction and alcoholism may seem like a tall order, but it is actually quite simple. Each day we take small steps—prayer, meditation, helping others—to live less selfishly and more in tune with what we feel will keep us on the path toward happiness, joyousness, and freedom. As we progress in our recovery, these daily activities become second nature and, rather than being chores, they become joyful activities that help us navigate the day in a positive and rewarding manner.
Your story can become one of hope and redemption. You can make the decision to seek help now and embark upon the rewarding journey of recovery. Oceanfront Recovery, a treatment facility in beautiful Laguna Beach, believes in tailoring treatment to meet each individual’s specific needs and unique challenges on their journey of recovery. For information about individualized treatment options, please call today: (877) 279-1777
