Recovery is hard work and is a life-long process. Treatment for addiction helps direct an individual through lifestyle changes and offers counseling and therapy. Everything learned in treatment makes the integration into society much easier. The temptation to relapse will be strong, especially in the first couple of months. When treatment ends, triggers must be avoided, which include people, places, and things that relate to the person’s life of addiction.
Family and friends can help develop a plan for their loved one’s new life of sobriety. They need to provide a loving, supportive environment for their loved one’s successful recovery. Family and friends should set boundaries, communicate, and go to counseling or therapy to mend and strengthen relationships with their addicted loved one.
Relapse can happen at any time. The addicted brain craves the release of dopamine, which will provide momentary pleasure. The person in recovery needs to remain positive about living his or her life substance free. He or she will come across many challenges ahead. Family and friends should learn about and be aware of things that could easily cause their loved one to relapse.
Sometimes people unknowingly add to the hard work and stress of staying sober. A person in recovery can feel hard-pressed to “have just one drink.” Family and friends should encourage the individual to remain sober and he or she should avoid people and environments that could activate relapse.
Relationships with family and friends are affected by a loved one’s addiction. A person with an addiction might have low self-esteem and feel ashamed or unworthy of living a substance-free life. It is important to set boundaries to rebuild trust and respect. Family and friends should set the boundaries and remain diligent about their expectations.
It is helpful for family and friends to communicate with their addicted loved one. Participating in therapy sessions will show their loved one how much he or she is loved. Family and friends should encourage, not shame the person with an addiction.
There is no cure for addiction. However, there is hope for recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance addiction, get help today. Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in treatment for drug and alcohol addiction and addictive behavior with a focus on healing the mind, body, and spirit. You can enjoy a healthy, fun, substance-free life.
Cypress Lakes Lodge offers excellence in addiction treatment. The facility is located in a serene, remote, lush-green environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 877-938-1577