Saturday, September 10, 2011

What To Do After Substance Abuse Treatment


 Recovery for most individuals struggling with substance abuse issues begins with getting clean and sober.  If they have been abusing alcohol or drugs for the majority of their life, then many times this journey of recovery begins with a stay in a residential alcohol and drug detox center followed up by longer term addiction treatment either in an inpatient addiction treatment center or in an outpatient setting.  This is followed by continuing work to grow in their recovery and build the life that they desire.
Recovery is a lifelong process.  So the commitment to an addiction treatment center is just the first chapter in the journey.  For many people truly interested in living their life clean and sober, the journey of recovery is not seen as a burden but rather an opportunity for growth.  It's an opportunity to grow beyond their old life which was shackled by their substance abuse issues.
The emotional maturity enabled by recovery work allows recovering addicts to be honest with themselves and to set boundaries in relation to people and their surroundings.  While some may believe this to be a life less lived, those that have sunk low enough in their addiction know that the serenity allowed by honesty and taking life one day at a time far outweighs anything that may have been missed in their old life.
The path of recovery is a long one, but one that is not to be seen as burdensome.  When we move forward taking care of today and having excitement about the challenges of tomorrow, we will find that life can have a meaning all its own-not one we force upon it by following what we think others want for us.
If you're having issues with drug or alcohol addiction, and therefore life, take the first step in your road of recovery by contacting an addiction treatment center.  It could be the call that opens up a whole new chapter in your life that brings you unexpected happiness.

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