Recovering from drug and alcohol addiction is an ongoing process of change impacting a person physically, emotionally and mentally. Each addict engaged in a program of recovery has to find the best methods to maintain success, and the formula is different depending on the person. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America explains that addiction is a chronic condition often requiring several forms of support as well as multiple attempts for sobriety in order to stay in recovery consistently. Indicators of recovery are the exact opposite of the indicators of active addiction and require consistent attempts on the part of the recovering person to prevent relapse.
Physical Attributes
Early signs of recovery often show in the physical attributes of staying sober. This takes the form of improved self-care and grooming habits. A condition known as post-acute withdrawal following recovery often occurs. This happens when the body learns to live without the addicting substance and inadvertently causes a state of physiological flux, according to TLC Recovery online. However, once this subsides and the body finds a sense of stability, motor coordination and reflexes are less imbalanced, the appetite returns to normal levels and sleep patterns regulate. Physical health becomes priority in the form of seeking regular medical attention for age appropriate concerns, focusing on nutrition habits and incorporating exercise into daily life. Addictions and Recovery online further explains that relaxation becomes priority as a means of self-reward or soothing rather than using substances.
Behavior Change
Behavior changes include the actions taken as part of a program of recovery. The recovery website Addiction Alternatives explains that during the process of recovery a stage referred to as action signifies the behavioral efforts made toward staying sober. Actions such as attending support meetings daily or weekly, seeing a counselor and obtaining sober friendships signify recovery from addiction. Behaviors focused on continued sobriety also include staying away from environments that condone use of drugs and alcohol such as bars or liquor stores. Maintaining recovery efforts remain at the forefront of sobriety and the recovering addict might refer to relapse prevention planning to avoid situations that trigger thoughts and behaviors toward substance use.
Recovery is the Focus
A person in recovery tends to immerse all aspects of his life into the recovery process. This includes using affirming statements learned in recovery groups or being honest with loved ones about risky thoughts and feelings. Alcohol and Drug Abuse online notes that "inner peace" from recovery includes showing less harsh self-judgment, showing more gratitude for life while being involved in life and allowing uncontrollable circumstances to happen without resorting to substance use.
References
- TLC Recovery: Post Acute Withdrawal Excerpt
- Alcohol and Drug Ahttp://www.drugalcoholaddictionrecovery.com/?p=71#more-71buse: Symptoms of Recovery: Inner Peace
- Addictions and Recovery: Recovery Strategies and Coping Skills
- Partnership for a Drug-Free America: 13 Myths About Drug Abuse and Treatment
- Addiction Alternatives: Stages of Change Model
