Recovery is often considered a lifelong process, as each day we learn something new about ourselves and experience new challenges and situations. Whether you’re a healthcare provider or a client in addiction recovery, it’s important that treatment centers make long-term recovery as appealing as possible. For many, pros and cons are weighed throughout several recovery stages, and individuals consider just how badly they want to recover over the effects that substances bring. By focusing in on what treatment centers can do to keep up the enthusiasm surrounding recovery, we hold a much better chance of retaining clients and reducing overall treatment dropout rates.
A 2017 study published in the journal Addiction sought to address this very concern. Several suggestions were made, including:
- Development of new hobbies and recreational activities that provide meaning, purpose, and excitement to a person’s life
- Reinforcing the building of healthy social networks
- Employment counseling
- Assistance with practical needs such as housing, couple’s counseling, etc.
- Interventions that make abstinence more rewarding than continued substance use
- Mutual support programs
On the opposite side, a 2015 study published in the Journal of Dual Diagnosis provides insight for clients who want to promote their own long-term success in recovery:
- Build a positive support community
- Engage in productive activities
- Carefully monitor your own attitudes towards substances, mental health, and responsibility
As you can see, these two sides go hand-in-hand with one another to create beautiful harmony for addiction recovery. If you are currently seeking a reputable treatment program, be sure to ask about these components as they can greatly increase your chances of success. If you are currently struggling with substance abuse and haven’t already, speak with a professional from a reputable treatment center today to learn more about programs that can best suit your needs. As triathlete Shane Niemeyer once said, “Sometimes we motivate ourselves by thinking of what we want to become. Sometimes we motivate ourselves by thinking about who we don’t ever want to be again.”
If you or someone you know has struggled immensely with trauma, help is available. Call The Guest House Ocala today for information on our residential treatment programs for trauma, addiction, and related mental health issues. 1-855-483-7800