Addiction is a disease that can develop following one instance of drug use. The insidious effects may also develop after long-term abuse. Each case is uniquely influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. While the steps of recovery depend on the individual, most will follow the same path.

These phases can take them from the depths of a drug or alcohol addiction to freedom. Follows are five common steps that can lead people to long-term recovery.

Step 1: Awareness

The first step towards recovery is admitting an addiction problem exists. Conversations with family or friends may help you realize this. For some, it takes legal, health, or financial problems to admit to a substance abuse problem.

During this phase, the person might still engage in addictive behaviors. However, this step is crucial for paving the way to making a full recovery. Additionally, it’s equally important that they move from awareness to acknowledgment that behavioral change is necessary.

Step 2: Action

Step two involves putting action behind awareness that addiction is a problem. During this phase, a person is open to learning more about how addiction to alcohol or drugs impacts their lives.

In addition, they might also find out they have polysubstance abuse. This general term refers to consuming more than one drug for a year or longer. Whether someone does this recreational or therapeutically, it will affect their treatment options.

Step 3: Decision

The invaluable insight and information given during the action phase prepares users for the next step. With denial in the rearview mirror, a person can truly begin recovery. Small, decisive steps give them time to see how the recovery process can improve their life.

This step encourages them to explore different treatment options. Conversations with family members or friends may prompt them to enter a treatment program.

Step 4: Early Recovery

All steps of recovery present delicate situations. On the positive side, a person has stopped using and is committed to long-term recovery. However, they may still be vulnerable to old behaviors, activities, and people who encourage their addiction.

Overall, relapsing during this early phase is problematic. During early recovery, most people don’t have the skills and knowledge to keep them from slipping backward. It is important to replace old habits with healthy coping skills.

Step 5: Active Recovery

Reaching this phase means you’ve done a tremendous amount of work. Your great progress comes with the realization that avoiding relapse means continuing this hard work.

This phase has its own rewards for those in recovery. They see their lives in ways that were unimaginable when first began their journey.

Receive Guidance Throughout All Steps of Recovery

Recovery steps are not simply overcoming an addiction. Rather, each phase represents a complete physical, psychological, and spiritual transformation. STR, an addiction treatment center in Levittown, Pennsylvania, has an intimate environment where you regain control of your life.

We offer custom treatment plans including:

• Interventions
• Partial hospitalization program
• Intensive outpatient program
• Sober living program
• Strong detox partnerships

Are you ready to begin the journey to sober living? If so, contact us at 267.209.7312 to discover the light of recovery.