Overcoming addiction is an incredibly difficult task. Whether the addiction is to alcohol or drugs, there are physical, emotional and psychological factors at play. That makes it challenging to embrace sobriety for the long term. Many people believe that overcoming addiction is harder today than it has ever been. While it may be up for debate, there are a number of reasons why recovering from addiction is so difficult.
There is a Modern Emphasis on Instant Sobriety
Perhaps one of the reasons that overcoming an addiction is so challenging in today’s society is an emphasis on gaining sobriety instantly. There are medical detox centers where patients can completely detox in a matter of hours. There is a belief that a few days of rehab is all it takes before patients are ready to head back to their ordinary lives.
Unfortunately, this is what can contribute to what is known as the hamster-wheel of recovery. Patients get clean, relapse, and then head back for another round of detox. Patients who want to increase their chance of preventing relapse for a lifetime need to commit to a comprehensive treatment model for recovery. That might mean a 30-day residential program where patients have access to everything from group counseling to individual behavioral therapy sessions. This approach may not be instant, but it will result in a better chance of lasting sobriety.
Misconceptions About Addiction
One of the bigger challenges to overcoming addiction is the misconception that addiction is somehow a personal choice. It is absolutely important for patients and their loved ones to understand that addiction is a medical illness. No one would argue that a person with asthma or cancer isn’t trying hard enough to recover quickly. So the same should hold true for recovery from an addiction. Realizing the medical reality of addiction means accepting that recovery isn’t always linear, but that treatment is always important.
Lack of Focus on Mental Health Factors when Overcoming Addiction
Another reason for overcoming an addiction can be harder than ever is not all rehab facilities give proper focus to mental health concerns. There is an undeniable link between mental health disorders and addiction. Treatment often needs to include a focus on the mental health of patients.
When those struggling with addiction seek out the right treatment facilities, it is important to locate a program with a dual diagnosis treatment. This treatment method will identify and address mental health and addiction concerns simultaneously. In this way, patients receive comprehensive care and a better chance at happy, sober and fulfilling lives.
Although overcoming addiction may be considered harder than ever, there are still a variety of resources and professional assistance that can make the process simpler. At Healing Springs Ranch in Tioga, Texas, a range of therapies, including dual diagnosis treatment, focus on the causes of addiction and relapse prevention. Call 866.656.8384 to get more information and begin a life of sobriety starting right now.