The phrase “one day at a time” is frequently used in the 12 steps rehabilitation programme. It may seem confusing at first as most addicts in recovery are looking at the long-term process. Wanting to quit their substance abuse for the rest of their lives. However, the more an individual immerses themselves into their treatment, the clearer the phrase will become.
Individuals who have an addiction centre their life around that addiction and whatever substance they choose to abuse. Therefore the prospect of sobriety and living every day without the habits they are so used to living with can be terrifying and almost too scary a prospect to tackle. In a 12 step programme a sponsor will tell the addict “take it one day at a time” in order to counter the daunting task that is recovery.
Dependent
After being so dependent on something for so long. Taking one day at a time means only having to deal and cope with single 24 hour periods without their chosen substances. In order to not overwhelm the addict. They must not contemplate long term sobriety as it may seem like too much. It can spiral them into further substance abuse. By breaking down recovery into smaller fragments. It can lessen the anxiety of the addict and how they are going to manage to live clean. In a 12 step programme there is a whole new support system. It contains other struggling addicts and individual sponsors which can further help the newly recovering addict. It’s often said that they will wake up one morning after a particularly stressful or difficult day and be so proud and amazed that they maintained their sobriety.
Wonders of Recovery
The true wonders of recovery occur within the first few days of alcohol rehab. It will appear to the addict that they are totally impossible to achieve. Facing a huge uphill battle, but they are attainable. Once these first few days are achieved, although there is still a huge amount of work to be done, the addict will recognise the possibility of them leading a sober life. By taking recovery day by day, they are making goals that are attainable without being intimidating. Furthermore, by reaching each day without turning to substances. the individual can realise their own strength against addiction and acknowledge the potential they have.
12 Step-Program
In 12 step programmes, the group environment is conducive to recovery. After hearing success stories of other individuals who have gone through what they have and have come out better the other side. A newcomer will further realise that they can do it to.
Overcoming an addiction is never going to be an easy task, requiring unfaltering dedication and focus on the life the individual wants to lead. However, entering a 12 step programme and following the notion of taking recovery “one day at a time”. It will assist with the process giving the addict all the tools and support they need to start the path leading to a happier, more fulfilling and healthy life.
The Haynes Clinic offers residential treatment for dependency on alcohol, drugs and prescription medication. We can also help with other addictions such as gambling and with eating disorders.