When it comes to addiction treatment, every patient is unique and has a timeline for recovery. Factors like the particular drug addiction treatment program, the specific addiction, and the patient themselves all influence the stages of addiction recovery that they will go through.
Stages of drug addiction recovery tend to follow a general pattern across five steps. Going through these steps is easier and safer with the help of a drug addiction treatment center than going through them alone. When going through these steps, reach out to A Better State at 781.412.1488 for the support and guidance you deserve.
The Five Stages of Drug Addiction Recovery
The path to recovery from addiction is never clearly outlined or defined. Still, on some level, each patient will move through five specific stages as they work toward achieving and maintaining recovery. These stages of addiction recovery are:
- Acknowledging the addiction
- Becoming more aware of the addiction
- Exploring recovery
- Beginning recovery
- Continuing with recovery and aftercare
These five stages are similar to the five steps of change popular across many other fields. Here, they are stated in terms relating to addiction recovery. The five steps of change are:
- Pre-contemplation
- Contemplation
- Preparation
- Action
- Maintenance
Every stage requires specific strategies tailored to each patient for maximum treatment effectiveness.
Acknowledging the Addiction (Pre-Contemplation)
During this stage, someone with a substance use disorder realizes they have an addiction. They may continue to use substances because they have not fully accepted this realization or are afraid of what it might mean for them.
This stage is a learning experience, and the person stops denying they have a problem and begins to want to do something about it.
Becoming More Aware of the Addiction (Contemplation)
Once a person accepts their situation, they will become more aware of their behavior and actions are centered around using their substance of choice. They will realize how their addiction has affected their job, family members, priorities, and friends.
Exploring Recovery (Preparation)
Number three in the five stages of drug addiction recovery is when individuals explore their options. Many people in this stage begin by thinking they can wean themselves off of substance use. After failed attempts, they realize that they cannot do it without help.
During this stage, the person will begin to look at options for outside help, such as attending a drug addiction treatment program or going to support group meetings.
Beginning Recovery (Action)
This stage is a critical time for patients; it’s when they begin to learn how to cope without the substance they are used to. They may go through withdrawal and attempt to repair relationships damaged by their substance use.
Patients also learn new coping skills and other healthy habits to focus on living a life free of substances.
Recovery and Ongoing Aftercare (Maintenance)
Achieving recovery is only the beginning; ongoing aftercare is crucial to avoid relapsing. As the last of the stages of addiction recovery, it’s also one of the most important. Sometimes, it’s the hardest to maintain.
Patients have identified triggers and develop strategies to avoid or cope with them by this stage. From here on out, they must maintain connections with the support network they have built to turn to when needed.
Find the Support You Need at A Better State
The five stages of recovery require strength, determination, and a strong commitment. You don’t have to go through them alone. Find the support, tools, education, and professional care you need to achieve recovery and avoid relapse with our friendly staff. Reach out to A Better State today at 781.412.1488.
