subject: Taking The First Step Toward Recovery [print this page] Taking the First Step toward Recovery Taking the First Step toward Recovery
The first step toward recovery involves asking yourself:
Could it be possible that I have an addiction?
Now, answer the question. Recovery begins as soon as you answer the question honestly.
Examining the Symptoms of Addiction
It is important to look at the symptoms as they show up in your life and confront them. Justifying and rationalizing your behaviors are a natural part of this stage and therefore, you may seek the help of a trained professional. Acknowledging that you may have a problem can be painful. Addiction has tangible benefits-intense emotional highs and an escape route from a perceived intolerable reality.
Consequences of Addiction
Identify the harmful consequences that the addiction has had on your life:
health,
occupation,
finances,
and, relationships.
It may be a good idea to write the consequences down. Once you have listed the consequences, you may be tempted to follow the Do-it Yourself approach. You may tell yourself, I dont need help, I can do this myself.
But remember, addiction is a cunning, baffling and powerful disease. On his first visit to my office, Phil, a 37 year old successful executive reported that his wife had threatened to leave him declaring that he is an alcoholic. Phil was set to prove her wrong. I havent had a drink in 11 days, and I am doing fine. This is called white knuckling and it doesnt last long.
Triggers of Addiction
At this stage, it is important to find a therapist who understands and works with addictions. The therapist will help you address the real issues underlying the addiction as well as help you examine the triggers to your addictive behaviors. Triggers usually point to the particular emotions that appear to be intolerable and anxiety-provoking to you. The addictive behavior helps you to numb or escape these emotions.
Examining triggers simply means that you have a greater awareness of what causes your addictive behaviors. It does not, however, prevent them from triggering you.
Abstinence and Withdrawal
In order to stop your addictive behaviors, you need to be abstinent and be willing to experience the withdrawal symptoms. In other words, there are no short cuts to Recovery. Withdrawal is a set of painful symptoms that show up when the addictive substance is removed. The symptoms could be physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual. It is very important to get the support of your therapist, family members, 12 Step fellowship during this phase as withdrawal may drive you back to the addictive behavior all over again.
Some of us may need medical attention. Severe alcoholics or drug addicts need medication to keep them from the effects of withdrawal. Others may need the support of antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to manage the withdrawal.
Recovery and Treatment
While the Recovery process may seem to be hard (and it is), it is important to remember that the sense of freedom and relief that you experience in Recovery is immeasurable. Also, it is important to keep in mind that
Addiction is a progressive disease
And the longer you wait,
the longer and harder you have to work in Recovery.
It is your choice.
Acknowledging Sex Addiction may be difficult since it is replete with social stigma. But help is available! Call 703-723-6998 or Toll Free: 1-888-438-8989 Today.
To learn more about Addiction and dynamic new ways to treatment, check out: http://www.InnerBalanceandPeace.com
For Telephone Coaching for Recovery, contact Rochna@radicaltransformation.com
Office Address: 19465 Deerfield Avenue, # 409, Leesburg, Virginia 20176
Rochna Hazra is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Virginia and has a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Virginia Tech. Originally from India, she brings a beautiful and unique blend of the East and the West. She combines the Eastern traditions of mindfulness, non-judgment and a holistic approach to healing with the Western approach of realism and solution-focused action that she has gained from her education, training and work.
