Some of the common questions people in recovery get are, “How long do you have to go to those classes?” or “When can you start drinking or using with us again?” Someone who is not addicted to drugs and alcohol may not understand that recovery has to continue for a lifetime, one day at a time.
There is no cure for addiction except the total abstinence from mind-altering substances. If someone addicted to drugs and alcohol does not pick up these substances, they can prevent the turmoil that happens afterward and begin the recovery process.
What Does It Mean to Recover From Addiction?
Someone who has recovered from drug and alcohol addiction has been proactive in their sobriety by implementing tools to prevent the obsession of the mind and the allergy of the body from taking over. A person is considered to be recovering until a relapse happens. The addiction will stay in remission until someone decides to use or drink again. An individual can recover quickly depending on the effort they put into their recovery.
They can remain recovered for as long as they continue putting that work into their program. Relapse can be a part of recovery, but does not have to be. Knowing that there is a risk of relapse and ways to prevent it can help someone stay on track.
Will I Know if I Am Recovering?
A person trying to get sober will eventually see results if they are taking and using the suggestions given. Most likely, others will see the changes in them before they see it in themselves. They will realize that they are different because their friends, families, and coworkers will tell them about the changes they see in them.
With the feedback provided, a recovering person should be proud of the sentiments from others and continue actualizing their recovery. Hearing a positive response keeps a person moving forward, knowing that they are doing the right thing. Surrendering to addiction is often the hardest part of recovery.
The depth of negative consequences is usually the deciding factor that can bring someone to their knees and decide that sobriety is the answer. The extent of recovery is dependent on when they start their journey and the choice to continue working their program to avoid relapse.
The quality of recovery is more important than the quantity. Today is the only day that someone has, so make each day count in the present.
Get the individualized attention you need to stabilize, assess, and to discern the best next steps in your journey. Offering a full range of recovery and mental health services, Valiant Living offers “Expanded Recovery” to enrich our clients’ mind, body, and spirit. We foster connection, encouraging clients to get connected to themselves, their peers, their families, and their higher power. With the power of recovery, clients are restored to full health and experience life-changing healing. Call us today to start your recovery at (303) 536-5463.
