What are the steps of recovery from alcoholism?

Recovery is the process of overcoming addiction and living a substance-free life. Alcoholism is a common addiction.

Alcoholism is a chronic disease that makes a person vulnerable; it is a fact that it affects millions of Americans. It can have a devastating or terrible impact on an individual’s health and mind, as well as their families and communities. 

Recovery from addiction to alcohol is not an easy journey, but it is possible with proper support, allowing you to overcome life challenges and become someone you admire.

This blog will assist you through all the essential steps of recovery from alcoholism, focusing on available resources in the US.

Recognizing the Signs of Alcoholism

Recognizing and accepting that alcohol consumption is causing harm to your life and relationships is an essential first step towards your journey to recovery. It takes courage to admit that you have a problem with alcohol. Still, it’s an important step that can lead to a healthier, happier life. 

Here are some common signs of alcoholism:

• Needing to drink more and more alcohol to feel the same effect (tolerance)
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking (dependence)
• Drinking despite negative consequences (e.g., job loss, relationship problems, health issues)
• Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Hiding or lying about your drinking
• Feeling irritable or anxious when you can’t drink

If you identify with several of these signs, seeking help is crucial. The NIAAA (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism) provides a self-assessment tool to help you determine if you or someone you know may have an alcohol use disorder (AUD) https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/.

Understanding the Stages of Recovery

Taking the first step towards recovery is a display of courage and resilience. Those capable of taking this first step have already won half the battle. However, the whole battle is won by those who know how to handle and keep relapses to a minimum. You may think you can recover alone without assistance. You will undoubtedly need help. Who could provide better assistance than experts knowledgeable about patients’ treatment and mental health? This is where wellness centres like Creative Wellness Consultants play a crucial role in your recovery. It’s a concierge care mental health wellness service where you can receive luxurious facilities in the comfort of your home. You will feel the warmth of a home and receive expert care at Creative Wellness.

Recovery from alcoholism is a lifelong process that can be broken down into several stages. These stages are not always linear, and there may be setbacks. However, understanding these stages can help you stay motivated and navigate your recovery journey.

• Pre-contemplation: It can be quite challenging to recognize that you have a drinking problem and may need to quit. This is the most difficult stage in the process, and it may be tempting to shift the blame to others for your addiction. For individuals with an addiction disorder, this stage can be challenging to navigate.
• Contemplation: You have started acknowledging the negative impact of your drinking habits and contemplating making a change. Your health history and current mental health will be reviewed by Creative Wellness experts. This will give a clear picture and help the experts assign the needed therapy. You will also be able to understand the root cause of the addiction.
• Preparation: You’ve decided to stop drinking and are starting to make treatment plans. This is a crucial moment when you need to decide on the best course of action. This is where our luxury rehab centre, Creative Wellness Consultants, can assist you. Our team of experts will work with you from the moment you contact us until you achieve complete recovery. At Creative Wellness, we understand that each individual’s case is unique, and we tailor personalized plans accordingly, keeping the ultimate goal of recovery in mind.
• Action: You are currently undergoing treatment and making progress towards achieving abstinence. This treatment may involve psychiatric care to address any underlying mental health issues related to addiction or medical care to support detoxification and repair any physical damage caused by substance abuse. At Creative Wellness Consultants, you can expect a range of therapies, including family therapy, holistic therapy, nutrition counselling, exercise programs, and recreational activities, designed to help you reconnect with a normal, healthy lifestyle.
• Maintenance: You have stopped drinking and are working to maintain your sobriety. In this phase, you must be careful for relapses, as they may happen. So, our experts with recreational activities will help you blend in with real life with ease. 
• Termination (Relapse Prevention): This term is sometimes used to describe a stage where you are no longer considered to have an alcohol use disorder, but the focus remains on preventing relapse.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) offers a more detailed explanation of the stages of change model: https://summitmalibu.com/blog/transtheoretical-model-stages-of-change-addiction/.

Detoxification and Withdrawal Management

Detoxification is the process of removing alcohol from your body. This can be a difficult and uncomfortable experience, and it’s essential to seek medical supervision during detox to manage withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include:

• Anxiety
• Shaking
• Sweating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Insomnia
• Seizures (in severe cases)

Withdrawal symptoms usually peak within a few days and gradually subside over a week or two. However, some people may experience more prolonged withdrawal symptoms known as Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS).

Detoxification is just the first step in alcohol dependence recovery. It doesn’t address the underlying causes of alcoholism.

Treatment Options and Support Systems

Many treatment options are available to support your recovery journey in the US. Here are some of the most common:

• Inpatient Treatment: This intensive program involves living at a treatment facility 24/7 for 30-90 days. It provides structured support, medical oversight, and access to therapy and other services.
• Outpatient Treatment assists you in living at home while you attend treatment sessions regularly. Depending on your needs, outpatient programs can be intensive or less structured.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Proper medications provided by doctors and experts can help reduce cravings and prevent relapse. MAT is often used in combination with therapy and other support services.
• Individual Therapy: This type of therapy helps you understand the underlying issues regarding your past or mental health that contribute to your drinking. Then, we develop coping skills to manage stress and other triggers.
• Group Therapy: Connection with others in recovery can provide valuable support and encouragement.
• Support Groups: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a well-known and widely available support group that offers free, peer-driven support to individuals struggling with alcoholism. Other evidence-based support groups are available, such as SMART Recovery and LifeRing.

Building a Life in Recovery

Recovery isn’t just about quitting drinking; it’s about building a healthy and fulfilling life. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:

• Develop a Relapse Prevention Plan: Recognize your triggers, such as stress, certain people, or places. Develop coping mechanisms to manage these triggers without resorting to alcohol.
• Practice Self-Care: It is time to prioritize your mental and physical health. Engaging in activities you love, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. Exercise is particularly beneficial for recovery, releasing endorphins that improve mood and reduce cravings.
• Build a Strong Support Network: The best approach is to surround yourself with positive and supportive people who understand your journey.
• Stay Connected to Treatment: Continue attending therapy sessions or support groups even after completing formal treatment.
• Celebrate Your Achievements: Recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small.
• Be Kind to Yourself: Setbacks are a natural part of the recovery process. Don’t beat yourself up if you have a slip. Learn from it and recommit to your goals.

Resources for Recovery in the US

If you’re struggling with alcoholism, there are many resources available to help you on your journey to recovery. Here are some helpful starting points:

• The National Alcohol Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) This free, confidential service is available 24/7. It can provide information and support for individuals and families affected by alcoholism.
• The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/ The NIAAA offers a wealth of information on alcoholism, including treatment options, research findings, and resources for healthcare professionals and the public.
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/ SAMHSA provides resources for finding treatment facilities, support groups, and other resources for substance abuse disorders.
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): https://www.aa.org/ AA is a free, peer-driven support group program for individuals struggling with alcoholism. They offer in-person and virtual meetings across the US.

Finding Treatment in the US

Creative Wellness Consultants understands that recovery is a journey, not a destination. We offer a comprehensive and compassionate approach that prioritizes your comfort, privacy, and long-term success. Here are some of the critical benefits of choosing our luxury rehab centre:

1. Intensive Therapy: Therapy can provide a safe space to address the root causes of your problems, contributing to unhealthy behaviours.
2. Psychiatric Treatment: It is an effective treatment to address mental health issues while simultaneously overcoming addictive behaviour.
3. Medical Care: Proper medication can alleviate detox symptoms and repair substance abuse damage.
4. Family Therapy: We offer the option of including your loved ones in family therapy sessions.
5. Holistic Therapy: It provides various complementary treatments to help strengthen your recovery.
6. Nutrition: Proper nutrition is imperative for a healthy body and mind. We provide the necessary building blocks to maintain good health.
7. Exercise: Our exercise program offers physical, mental, and social benefits to protect against relapses.
8. Recreational activities: It aims to help individuals discover new ways to enjoy social and leisure activities, leading to a fun and fulfilling life.

Conclusion

Recovery from alcoholism requires dedication, courage, and the right support system. By understanding the stages of recovery, exploring available treatment options, and seeking professional help, you can overcome addiction and reclaim your life.

Creative Wellness Consultants offers a discreet, personalized, and results-oriented approach to guide you through every step of your recovery journey. We are committed to assisting you to achieve lasting sobriety and a fulfilling life. Let us help you recover and start your journey towards complete wellness. Connect with us at strategy@creativewellnessconsultants.com