According to the American Addiction Centers, 74% of adults in the US had suffered from substance use in 2017. This means that addiction is a huge problem in the U.S. and affects millions of people. In fact, it’s estimated that only 10% of people who suffer from addiction will ever get treatment. This is a problem because addiction is a disease that can be incredibly difficult to break free from on your own.
Getting stuck in a cycle of addiction can feel like swimming in a never-ending stream. With every upstream stroke, you think you see the shore only to get pulled back under again. But it is possible to break free, and some people have done it. Here are five ways that may help you escape a cycle of addiction.
1. Seek Professional Help
One of the most important things you can do to break free from a cycle of addiction is to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide invaluable support and guidance as you navigate this difficult journey. They can also help address any underlying issues contributing to your addiction.
Some people may need inpatient rehabilitation treatments to break free from their addiction. This is especially true for those who have a history of relapse. Inpatient treatment can provide a safe and structured environment to detox and recover. It can also offer essential resources and support to help you recover.
Meanwhile, outpatient treatment can be a good option for those with a robust support system. Outpatient treatment can also be flexible, which can be helpful for those who have work or other obligations.
Professional help is an important step in breaking free from addiction regardless of the type of treatment you choose because it gives you the tools and support you need to recover.
2. Join A Support Group
Another helpful step is to join a support group for people struggling with addiction. This can provide much-needed encouragement and motivation and an outlet for sharing your experiences and frustrations. Knowing you are not alone in this battle can make all the difference.
Support groups can also offer important resources and information, such as finding a treatment or dealing with relapse. They can also provide a sense of community and connection, which can be very helpful for people feeling isolated and alone.
If you are struggling with addiction, consider joining a support group. It can be a great way to get help and support from others who understand what you are going through.
3. Avoid Temptation
One of the most important things you can do to break free from a cycle of addiction is to avoid temptation. This means avoiding places, people, and things that trigger your urge to use or drink. It may also mean distancing yourself from certain friends or family members who enable your behavior.
Avoiding temptation is important in escaping addiction because it can help you stay focused on your goal of recovery. It can be difficult to resist if you are constantly surrounded by things that tempt you to use or drink. This can lead to relapse and a return to your addiction.
It is, therefore, important to distance yourself from anything that may tempt you, including people, places, and things. It can be difficult, but staying on track for recovery is worth it. Sticking to a recovery plan is not always easy, but it is possible with hard work and dedication.
4. Fill Your Time With Positive Activities
An important part of breaking free from a cycle of addiction is finding positive activities to fill your time. This might include things like exercise, hobbies, or volunteering. By keeping yourself busy with positive activities, you will have less time and energy for negative thoughts and behaviors. For example, if you are struggling with an addiction to alcohol, filling your time with sober activities can help you stay on track.
Positive activities can also provide a sense of purpose and satisfaction. This is important because addiction often leaves people feeling empty and lost. By filling your time with positive activities, you can help yourself feel better and more in control.
5. Believe In Yourself
Perhaps the most important thing of all is to believe in yourself. Know that you have the strength and courage to overcome this challenge. Remind yourself that each day brings you one step closer to freedom. Addiction can be a powerful force, but so is the power of self-belief. Those who can tap into their inner strength and believe in their ability to overcome addiction are more likely to find success in recovery.
There are several reasons why self-belief is so important in the recovery journey.
- It gives individuals the motivation to keep going even when times are tough.
- It allows them to see recovery as a possibility rather than an impossible task.
- It gives them the strength to face their fears and address the root causes of their addiction.
- It allows them to develop a sense of hope and optimism — essential ingredients for a successful recovery.
It is also important to have realistic expectations. Recovery is a process, and there will be ups and downs along the way. Learning to accept setbacks and move on is a crucial part of recovery.
If you are stuck in a cycle of addiction, know there is hope for breaking free. It won’t be easy, but it is possible if you take the right steps and beliefs necessary for making lasting change happen in your life! Seek professional help, join a support group, avoid temptation, fill your time with positive activities, and most importantly, believe in yourself. These are all key ingredients for success in recovery.
