Drug Rehabilitation: What Does ‘Recovery’ Mean?

When you’re battling a drug or alcohol abuse, it can be difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Maybe you’re just beginning to realize that you need to change. Maybe you’ve tried to kick the habit before, only to find yourself back where you started. You may be wondering if drug rehabilitation is even possible. The good news is that, with effective substance abuse treatment, you can achieve– and maintain– sobriety.

What Is Recovery?

Recovery is a lifelong process, not just a one-time event. More than just refraining from drugs, alcohol, or other addictive habits; it’s about pursuing overall wellness. People who have successfully overcome addiction often refer to their recovery as “a second chance at life” because they have new opportunities to build healthy relationships, hold meaningful jobs, and participate in community activities. According to research, quality of life increases the longer a person has been able to maintain sobriety.

Pillars and Principles of Recovery

You can think of recovery as a highly-individualized process centered on four pillars:

• A sense of purpose
• Being surrounded by a loving community
• Promoting all aspects of your health
• Having a safe, stable place to call home

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, recovery is driven by several guiding principles. Although the process looks different for each person and is influenced by cultural dimensions, it always begins with hope and recognition that change is necessary. Although it’s accomplished with the help of drug treatment centers and the support of loved ones, recovery must be self-directed.

The Road to Recovery: One Step at a Time

Alcohol rehab and drug rehab centers empower you to take steps to overcome addiction. The initial phase looks like this:

1. Recognizing that you have an addiction, being willing to commit to positive change, and believing that recovery is possible.
2. Learning what addiction is– a disease that causes changes in the brain– and what it isn’t– a character flaw or weakness.
3. Developing a plan for recovery by deciding to change and enlisting the help of friends, loved ones, and healthcare providers.
4. Finding the substance abuse treatment plan that meets your needs and considering post-treatment options, such as sober living homes, to help you transition back into the community.

Ridgeview Institute offers comprehensive drug rehabilitation to help you begin your recovery. Contact us to learn more or schedule an evaluation.