How To Overcome A Substance Abuse Disorder: 7 Strategies That Might Help

Substance abuse disorder can be overcome. It’s not impossible, but it can be a challenge. For this reason, you’ll want to follow this guide that contains seven strategies that you’ll want to put to good use.

It’s important that you get the help you need as soon as possible. One way to get started is to find the nearest substance abuse rehabilitation center that will fulfill your needs. This should also coincide with the seven strategies that you’ll want to follow below.

Let’s talk more about what you can do to overcome substance abuse disorder.

Make the decision to get help

The first thing you’ll want to do is admit that you have a problem. This means disclosing this information to your friends and family (if they don’t know about it). Chances are, they may be aware of your addiction and will stage an intervention.

The sooner the idea to get help appears, the quicker you need to take action. Get the help you need now as it will save your life.

Think about the ‘what ifs’

What if you go through with the treatment plan? What will life be like then? Also ask yourself what would happen if you didn’t follow through.

Once again, the decision to get the treatment you need is a life or death decision. If you continue with your addiction, the chances of you dying from it will be great. You’ll know that the what ifs will become ‘it will be’ regardless of the decision.

Make sure it’s a good one that will increase your chances of survival.

Talk to someone who’s been there

If you know someone that has been to rehab and has since recovered from addiction, talk to them about your own struggles. They will give you an overview of what you will be going through during your own treatment plan. They can also be your go-to person whenever you have questions.

To have someone like this in your corner and become one of your support people can give you confidence. You’ll have a good idea of what to expect when you begin your treatment plan.

This is also a person that will recommend you which rehab programs to go through. They may also be part of an alumni program where they can be able to talk to the right people. They can also help you put together a strategy in finding the right facility that fits your needs, financial situation, and beyond.

Assess your addiction 

How severe is your addiction? What substance did you abuse on a regular basis? These are questions that you’ll want to ask.

For example, if you have been dealing with substance abuse for a while, it may be a good idea to consider inpatient detox. The reason for this is that you’ll likely be dealing with symptoms of substance withdrawal (which can be severe). In this situation, an in-home detox will not be a good decision.

This is due to the fact that some withdrawal symptoms will be so severe to the point where they can be fatal. On top of that, you will need medication assistance in order to reduce these symptoms. Inpatient detox will also give you access to medical care whenever you need it.

Dispose of any substances as soon as possible

Before you enter a detox facility to begin treatment, it’s the perfect time to dispose of any substances you may have. This includes any substances that you are addicted to and those that may have triggered the need for them. The more trigger items you throw away, the less likely you’ll satisfy your need for the drug in question.

It may be wise to get this done in a day or so prior to entering rehab. After a certain period of time, the withdrawal symptoms will kick in. You already will be within a close proximity of medical personnel that will treat them.

Build a support system of people you trust

Your support system will become one of your largest assets. They will come in handy when your treatment begins and will continue to do so long after you’re finished. These people will be your family members, counselors, medical professionals, and fellow recovered addicts.

Over time, you will meet people who will become part of this support system that you can access any time, any place, any day. You will need to be selective of who you include in this support system.  The people you do not want to include in your group are the people that have inspired you to get into substance abuse and addiction.

Including them in your inner circle for support would defeat the entire purpose. If anything, you will need to cut them out of your life as soon as possible. They will force you to relapse and become your old self.

You do not want this. Neither does your support group that is putting their energy into rooting for you.

Consider alternative living arrangements

If your current living arrangement is not ideal for your treatment, you’ll want to consider other options. This includes living in a sober living facility for a length of time. This also means time away from your family as well.

The living arrangements can be a challenge to your sobriety for several reasons. While you are away in sober housing, you will need the people in your life to make arrangements for when you need to return home. What changes need to be made in order to make your own home liveable again?

Keep in mind that while in sober housing, you will need to follow the rules and regulations. You may need to do mandatory tasks or face expulsion. Also, the length of time may be determined by a therapist or anyone who may have the authority to make such a decision.

If your living arrangements are stable and satisfactory, sober housing may not be a viable option.