Drug Rehab: Are You in the Cycle of Addiction?

Research provided by Johns Hopkins University shows that more than 20 million Americans over the age of 12 struggle with some type of substance use disorder. Regrettably, many individuals fail to realize how bad their addiction is. It is vital that you are able to recognize if you or a loved one is caught in the cycle of addiction. Seeking help from a drug rehab can help you take back control of your life.

How to Tell if Someone Is Struggling With Addiction

A person who is struggling with addiction may exhibit various thoughts and behaviors. Some of the things you may notice include:

• Experience constant cravings for a particular substance
• An increased tolerance for the substance
• An inability to control the use of the substance 

In addition, addiction is known to result in significant legal problems or relationship problems between spouses, siblings, and other members of the family. If you or a loved one are dealing with any of these problems, it may be a result of addiction. Drug rehab can help you deal with these and other symptoms.

The Cycle of Addiction

Addiction is something that affects each individual person in a different way. There are several different stages of addiction that a person can be caught in. 

The Experimentation Stage

The cycle of addiction generally starts with experimentation. An individual in this stage may just be starting out. They may try a particular substance due to being curious about it. During the experimentation stage, an individual may not realize the potential for developing an addiction to the substance.

The Regular Use Stage

During this stage, individuals continue to use substances more often. They may engage in specific behaviors that they would not normally do while sober. Individuals who are in this stage may start to use the substance more often or in larger amounts. Without drug rehab, individuals may experience worsening cravings, which can be problematic.

The Problematic Stage

During this stage, an individual may start to experience negative consequences from their substance use. This can include mentally, physically, or financially. If you are in this stage, you may have problems with work, your relationships may suffer, or you may be spending more money than you have to maintain your addiction.

The Stage of Dependence 

During this stage, individuals may experience more mental and physical symptoms of addiction. Due to the continued use of drugs or alcohol, the body and the brain both adapt to the presence of the substance. As a result, the lack of the substance is likely to cause significant symptoms of withdrawal or cravings. 

Craving and Preoccupation Stage

At this stage, it is common to experience physical and emotional cravings for the substance. This can lead to compulsive behaviors, which can be dangerous in some situations. Individuals often experience strong thought patterns and engage in actions to obtain the substance and use it. 

The Loss of Control

Despite knowing and recognizing the consequences of addiction, individuals in this stage will find that it is extremely difficult to control substance use. You may find yourself attempting to reduce your usage of substances but find it extremely difficult to do so. 

Rock Bottom

At this stage, many individuals experience the very real and negative consequences of their substance use. At this point, many individuals experience devastating impacts on their personal and professional lives. It is vital to seek help through a trusted drug rehab to ensure you are able to take back control of your life.

Getting Out of the Cycle of Addiction

Breaking the cycle of addiction can be extremely challenging. However, it is also incredibly rewarding. With support, determination, and a trusted drug rehab, you have the best chance of overcoming your addiction. There are several steps to take to exit the cycle of addiction.

Recognize the Addiction

The first step to overcoming your addiction is to acknowledge that you have a problem that needs to be addressed. Recognize how the addiction is affecting your life and accept that you have a problem.

Seek Help From a Professional

Next, you need to reach out to drug rehab for help. A skilled professional will be able to provide guidance and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you obtain and maintain sobriety. 

Establish a Support Network

After committing to drug rehab, it is vital that you have a strong support network in place. You want to surround yourself with friends, family, other others who will help encourage you and provide practical support. Attending support groups can also be extremely beneficial.

Set Realistic and Attainable Goals

When it comes to recovery, it is best to break the process into small, manageable steps. Set realistic and attainable goals to ensure you continue moving forward. Celebrate each individual milestone, as this can help keep you motivated and confident.

Create a Routine

Establish a daily schedule that is easy to follow. This will help you maintain focus. It can also help you avoid triggers that could lead to relapse. 

Remove All Temptations

One of the best ways to maintain sobriety is by removing temptations from your life. If there are items, people, or even places that trigger your addiction, it is best to avoid them. This does not mean that you have to avoid these things forever. Instead, you should avoid them while learning the tools and skills needed to maintain sobriety.

Learn Healthy Activities

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can ensure you remain strong during your recovery process. Eat well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and getting enough sleep are things that will greatly improve your mental and physical health and well-being. 

Continue Support Groups

Even after drug rehab, it is important to continue moving forward. This can involve regularly attending support groups to share insight with others.

Get Started at Our Drug Rehab Today

If you are dealing with a substance use disorder, it is important that you realize that there is hope for you. Our experts at Inner Voyage Recovery Center can provide you with the tools and resources that you need to overcome your addiction and live happier and healthier. Through our drug rehab program, you can effectively learn coping skills, how to resist urges, and healthier habits that you can incorporate into your life. Contact our team in Woodstock, GA, today by calling (470) 523-4606 to speak with our admissions counselors to get started.