Recovery Guide
Your step-by-step guide to understanding addiction and beginning the journey to recovery.
Understanding Addiction
Addiction is a chronic disease that affects brain function and behavior. It's not a moral failing or lack of willpower—it's a medical condition that requires professional treatment and support.
Key Understanding
Addiction changes the brain's reward, motivation, and memory systems. These changes make it extremely difficult to stop using substances without professional help—even when facing serious consequences.
Signs You May Need Help
The Recovery Process
Acknowledgment
Recognizing that there's a problem and that you need help is the first and most important step. This isn't easy, but it's necessary for change to begin.
Assessment
Professional evaluation determines the severity of addiction, any co-occurring mental health conditions, and the appropriate level of care.
- Physical and mental health screening
- Substance use history
- Previous treatment attempts
- Support system assessment
- Living situation and responsibilities
Detoxification
For many substances, medically supervised detox is the safest way to stop using. Medical professionals monitor your health and manage withdrawal symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment addresses the underlying causes of addiction and builds skills for long-term recovery.
- Inpatient/Residential: 24/7 care (30-90 days)
- Partial Hospitalization (PHP): Full-day treatment
- Intensive Outpatient (IOP): 9-12 hours per week
- Outpatient: Weekly therapy sessions
Ongoing Support
Recovery is a lifelong journey. Ongoing support helps prevent relapse and build a fulfilling life.
- 12-step programs (AA, NA, etc.)
- SMART Recovery or other mutual support groups
- Individual therapy
- Sober living housing
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Healthy routines and lifestyle changes
⚠️ Important Safety Note
Never attempt to detox from alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other depressants alone. Withdrawal can be dangerous or fatal without medical supervision. Always seek professional help for detoxification.
What to Expect in Treatment
Therapy Approaches
Evidence-based therapies commonly used in addiction treatment:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Identifies and changes negative thought patterns and behaviors
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Develops emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills
Motivational Interviewing
Strengthens personal motivation for change
Contingency Management
Uses positive reinforcement to encourage sobriety
Family Therapy
Addresses family dynamics and builds support
Building a Recovery Foundation
Treatment helps you develop:
Relapse Is Not Failure
Relapse rates for addiction are similar to other chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension (40-60%). If relapse happens, it's not a sign of failure—it's a sign that treatment needs to be adjusted or resumed. Each attempt at recovery builds skills and knowledge that contribute to eventual long-term success.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Professional help is available:
Recovery Begins Here
Take the first step toward lasting change. Professional help is available 24/7.