Possibly the most important factor when it comes to treatment for alcoholism and addiction. The possibility of maintaining a sober life, is the addict’s absolute desire to want to change their habits and way of life forever. Only then will they successfully use the 12-step rehabilitation tools they have learnt to effect this change.
However, though it is the addict’s responsibility. There is an important role for those who love and care for the addict and for professionals to play. Their views and beliefs can be influential and indispensable to an individual’s recovery as they are the support system in the early stages of recovery.
12-Step Rehabilitation
Staff in alcohol and drug rehabilitation centres are usually exceptionally caring. Though they may not be ‘soft’ as this is not always in the addict’s best interests. In addition, as the majority of the staff are past and recovering addicts. They are fully understanding of the situation that each individual is in and are able to empathise with their situation.
It has been found from research that carers who have experienced addiction are far more understanding, patient and supportive towards their patients than those who have not had similar experiences. Therefore, 12-step rehabilitation centres ultimately create a far better environment conducive to recovery.
Maintenance
Once leaving their 12-step rehabilitation, they have to maintain sobriety outside of the safety of the treatment centre. They have to have a strong sense of self and dedication to the path they have chosen to go down – one of sobriety and health. Maintaining sobriety outside of a rehabilitation programme is hugely difficult. It requires a great amount of will power.
It is important to be open and talk to their friends and family about their daily struggles. Group therapy and discussion groups are considered hugely beneficial in helping recovering addicts. To keep away from the temptations that they experienced pre-treatment. These groups are available to both drug addicts (Narcotics Anonymous) and alcoholics (Alcoholics Anonymous).
Long Term Sobriety
However, no amount of group meetings will be able to help an individual unless the desire comes from within them. The exterior help is there to encourage and support addicts in their recovery to help maintain their healthy and hopefully happy lifestyles without having to abuse substances. If you, a friend, family member or loved one is experiencing or has gone through a problem with substance abuse, a long term rehabilitation programme is the most effective route to a sober life and support groups will help maintain it once the treatment is over.
It must be remembered that once the addict admits to having a problem and is committed to overcoming their substance abuse they have already defeated a lot of their demons. However, in the end actions and living the sober life will speak a lot louder than words.