Substance Use Disorder Recovery: Finding the Path That’s Right For You

The path to substance use disorder recovery is never an easy one, and this journey can oftentimes produce many negative emotions, including confusion, shame, and guilt. But, it’s important to remember that no matter who is struggling with substance use disorder, the road to recovery looks different for everyone. Fortunately, multiple pathways to recovery are readily available, because finding the help you need should always fit your situation and goals.

The Multiple Pathways to Recovery

Finding a recovery and treatment plan that works for you can alleviate much of the stress and anxiety-related factors an individual may experience when seeking help. The first step to recovery is typically the most difficult to take. These multiple pathways to recovery exist to assist people in making that first leap by educating them on the various options that are available. Because everybody is unique, and has varying strengths, needs, goals, or backgrounds, the right treatment plan should be personalized to meet these dynamic factors.

General/Common Treatment Options

Some of the more common and general pathways to recovery are always great initial steps for anyone looking for help, or treatment. These options include:

12-Step Recovery – The 12-step recovery plan encourages abstinence from the source of your substance misuse disorder, while providing a safe and reliable way to share experiences and problems with others dealing with similar issues. There are many types of 12-step recovery groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, and many more. These programs also typically encourage a sponsor, who has already worked through all 12 steps, and can act as a confidant, or line of support.

Detoxification – Medical detoxification is often the first step of the recovery process for many. It is needed for individuals with a physical dependency to their misused substance, who will experience potentially harmful withdrawal symptoms if they stop using. It is always suggested that a struggling individual seeks out a medical professional to determine if they require a detox.

Inpatient Treatment – Inpatient rehabilitation centers are what most people think of when someone is “going to rehab” to receive help. Individuals typically stay in these facilities anywhere from 28 days to 3 months. Rehab facilities are staffed with doctors, nurses, and therapists to help you work on a behavioral, mental, or substance abuse issue. Many centers also come with plenty of amenities, so your time can be productive and stress-free.

Long-Term Treatment Options

Wellness groups for substance use treatment offer a critical component of many addiction recovery paths, and provide a fantastic long-term treatment option. Sharing your experience with others and being open about your situation can provide plenty of long-term benefits towards your overall mental health. Many recovering individuals build long-lasting relationships in groups like AA or CA, and can learn a fair deal of long term sobriety tips from others along the way.

Therapy and counseling is another option for many, who may work better on a personal level with a medical professional. Therapists and psychiatrists work very differently in the handling of substance misuse, and oftentimes an individual may talk to both about the issues at hand, while also receiving proper medication if necessary.

Some people also find tremendous value in physical fitness, yoga, hypnotherapy, and other holistic approaches. They help restore the physical body, and can help ease stress and anxiety.

Pathways to Recovery Infographic

Finding the Right Path

No pathway to recovery is better than another. It comes down to personal goals and desires, and knowing what treatment might work best for you. Retreat Behavioral Health has been helping many individuals struggling with substance use disorder find their ideal recovery path. With tips on relapse prevention, and plenty of other substance misuse services, getting the help you need can become a reality.

Retreat Behavioral Health offers Alumni & Community support, so you can stay connected far after your wellness journey. We embrace and celebrate wellness by providing outstanding opportunities to grow, reflect, advocate, educate and connect.

Retreat will also be hosting a live discussion on September 21st, 2021. ​​Join us at 7 p.m. on Facebook Live as we bring together different advocates for recovery to discuss and answer your questions, as we continue to celebrate National Recovery Month. Learn more about Retreat, or contact us today for any questions or concerns.