Because healing from addiction does not require a “one-size-fits-all” approach, recovering from addiction can be accomplished in a variety of efficient ways. This is due to the fact that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. To put it another way, every person is unique, and different treatments have varying degrees of success (and are better suited to the patient) depending on the individual’s personality as well as the state of his or her physical and mental health.
However, it is important to note that even though there are a variety of competing philosophies and ongoing debates about the best way to approach recovery from addiction, there are nonetheless a number of fundamental core principles that continue to hold true. The following are two fundamental concepts:
- Keeping your distance from people and places that might tempt you to use drugs and avoiding being in those settings.
- Seeking assistance when you are unsure of what action to take next, when you are confused, or when you are experiencing significant emotional anguish. There is absolutely no shame in needing assistance and seeking it out. Adhering to these two tenets is essential to establishing a strong foundation for long-term recovery from addiction.
Keeping your distance means avoiding high-risk situations that could lead to substance use and keeping your distance from those situations. These scenarios include avoiding being in stressful situations, being in neighborhoods with high rates of drug use, having friends who use drugs, or being in close proximity to drug dealers. Avoiding stressful situations is just one of these scenarios. It’s possible that the requirements of your job or lifestyle are too high, and you need a break from them. On the other hand, it’s possible that the environment in which you currently reside does not encourage you to lead a healthy lifestyle. No matter what the circumstances are, a person who is working on their recovery needs to create a “safe zone” in which they can isolate themselves from the kinds of things that lead to relapse. In this “safe zone,” they can focus on their recovery without being distracted by the things that could cause them to relapse.
The second thing you should do is look for help. Talk to someone who can empathize with your situation and understand what you’re going through at the same time. People who are working through the process of recovering from addiction frequently experience feelings of shame and guilt, which can make them reluctant to talk to others about their addiction. Reaching out to others, on the other hand, is not the same as experiencing feelings of embarrassment or guilt; rather, it is a demonstration of bravery, courage, and a strong will to improve oneself. After a difficult fall, it is essential to keep in mind that even a small amount of humility should not prevent you from picking yourself up and trying again.
You will be able to make the transition from a recovery that is stressful to one that is more focused on you if you are able to keep these two fundamental principles in mind throughout your recovery from addiction: keeping your distance and asking for help.