How do you overcome an addiction? This question may be easy to ask, but the solution can be difficult to find. Some people may be able to successfully overcome their addictions without going through rehab or treatment, while others might need extra help in order to get sober and stay sober forever. Regardless of your level of addiction, learning how to overcome an addiction can save your life and improve your future. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the most successful methods that have been used to overcome an addiction from beginning to end.
1) What is Rehab Like?
It’s important to point out that not all drug rehab programs are created equal. But, if you’re serious about overcoming your addiction, it’s imperative that you choose a program with great tools and techniques for breaking free from addictive substances. This means choosing a program with methods backed by scientific research—like cognitive behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy—as well as one that offers genuine support from qualified treatment professionals who have worked through their own struggles with addiction. Doing so can help maximize your chances of success.
2) Mental Roadblocks
A big part of overcoming addiction has to do with mental roadblocks. We’re so used to being pulled in certain directions by our habits that sometimes it takes a serious hit—like getting cancer or having a family member die—to change our direction. But it can be done, if you believe in yourself and are willing to do what it takes. There’s no easy way around it: working on these mental roadblocks is hard work, but they also require serious commitment.
3) Physical Rehabilitation
Physical rehabilitation typically includes exercise that can help your body get back into its normal routine. Patients are also encouraged to get back into their normal routines and lives, including getting back to work or school and spending time with family and friends. It’s critical that you learn how to manage your symptoms in a healthy way—you don’t want your addiction symptoms coming back.
4) Nutrition
Cutting back on your daily calories is an effective way to lose weight quickly. The average person should consume between 1,800 and 2,000 calories a day in order to maintain a healthy body weight. If you’re overweight or obese, you can safely cut back your daily intake by 500 calories per day. The American Heart Association recommends a reduction of no more than 1,200 calories per week when attempting to lose weight quickly. In addition to eating less food overall, aim for a healthier diet that emphasizes nutrient-rich foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables rather than empty-calorie snack foods and refined carbs. Reaching for healthier alternatives will also help ensure you get all of your daily nutrients from food alone.
5) Family Support
An active support system of family and friends is extremely helpful in overcoming addiction. But, while they may love you, it’s not uncommon for people struggling with addiction to isolate themselves from their loved ones. This can be dangerous because being away from your support system actually makes it harder for you to get better. When you feel down, turn towards your loved ones—and don’t forget that there are also professional organizations out there that can help if someone close to you isn’t willing or able to lend a hand. Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous host meetings all over the world where people struggling with addiction can meet others who are on similar paths of recovery.