Alcohol and drug addiction (or dependency) can become an all-encompassing and devastating condition, not just for the addict, but for their family and friends too. However, in almost all cases, there is hope for a full recovery if a well-designed program of detoxification, recovery, and maintenance is observed.
Once an addict has made a dedicated decision to detox from drugs or alcohol, they have already taken the first step on a challenging path. However, recovery can be a long process, and for some, it lasts a lifetime. Many former addicts choose to describe themselves as “recovering” rather than “recovered” for this reason.
The Five Stages of Recovery (as proposed by Prochaska, DiClemente and Norcross in 1992)
STAGE ONE: PRE-CONTEMPLATION OF DETOXIFICATION
This stage precedes the moment of acceptance of the need for change. It’s a phase of denial and justification, where the addict makes excuses to themselves for their behavior.During this stage, the individual lacks insight and understanding. However, there may be moments of self-awareness, where symbolic attempts are made to change (such as throwing drugs or alcohol away, albeit temporarily).
Support from loved ones may help nudge addicts towards stage two, but the main impetus needs to come from within.
STAGE TWO: CONTEMPLATION
The addict becomes aware that they have a problem. They realize they would benefit from treatment, but they don’t necessarily believe it could work. At this stage, they may be more amenable to encouragement from friends and family.
However, this must be delivered without accusations, judgment, or shaming. Negative reinforcement can lead to a rejection of the right course of action. Positive encouragement and support can push the addict towards stage three.
STAGE THREE: PREPARATION
This stage is a delicate balancing act – the addict now accepts they need to change and has taken some steps towards achieving that end. Perhaps they have located a rehabilitation program or center such as ours.
They may have abstained from drug or alcohol intake for a few days. However, abstinence may be having deleterious effects on their body and mind, tempting them back towards substance use. Should certain triggers occur, they could slip back into stages one or two.
Fortunately, continued support and assistance from friends, family, and professionals (such as a support helpline) can help them reach stage four.
STAGE FOUR OF DETOXIFICATION: ACTION
The addict enters a program or takes other steps to ensure their continued abstinence, detoxification, and recovery. During this phase, it is important to monitor both their mental and physical states, as the addictive substances can have a detrimental effect on both. It is in this stage that we generally meet and treat patients in our detoxification and recovery center.
Change must be holistic – mental attitudes and behaviors must improve alongside substance use. The patient must find something worthwhile to replace the release that drugs or alcohol provided. Exercise, socializing (without alcohol), meditation, art, sport, or other activities can help significantly.
The patient must be fully supported to attain equilibrium in all aspects of their emotional life and daily routine if they are to reach stage five.
STAGE 5: MAINTENANCE
When the patient leaves our center, it must be with a determination to continue key activities that promote and maintain sobriety. These can include exercise, meditation, attending support groups such as AA or NA, suitable recreation, socializing, and attending to their physical and mental well-being.
Some will reach a steady state of recovery within six months, but for others, it may take two to five years before they are confident that a relapse will not occur. If it does, they will return to an earlier stage in this process, which must then be repeated.
Fortunately, for the committed recovering addict, there are many resources to help instill sobriety and recovery. Having supportive loved ones can be incredibly helpful as well.
At Still Detox, we focus on stages three through five, with the expertise that comes from the experience of helping thousands of addicts recover and maintain healthy, happy, and sober lives.
