5 Tenants of Recovery from Alcoholism and Addiction

Millions of people who struggle with alcoholism or addiction want recovery but do not fully understand the concept. They often imagine that recovery includes white-knuckling through urges to drink or use drugs again, while still staying the same person they were when their troubles began. A full recovery program should address multiple areas of an addicted person’s life, allowing them to reinvent themselves.

Physical Recovery

Physical recovery begins with the removal of alcohol or drug intake from a person’s life. This may require a detoxification program, but even if it doesn’t, the body begins to recover when the poisonous substances that polluted it for so long are vanquished. 

Mental Recovery

Lifting the mental fog of a constant state of inebriation helps the mind start to think more clearly. When rational decisions and plans for the future are part of recovery, a lot of progress can be made.

Emotional Recovery

A person living a sober life becomes more capable of succeeding through therapy. They can benefit from sessions with a trained counselor and begin to make actual progress. Alcohol and drugs often cover up difficult emotions and numb them. Being able to finally feel and label the feelings a person is experiencing and plan for how to deal with them empowers a person’s recovery immensely.

Spiritual Recovery

A return to faith in a higher power or developing one for the first time proves meaningful to many people in recovery. Some people prefer a traditional denomination, while others explore different avenues. Whatever choice feels right, the connection to a spiritual organization or entity can prove valuable. 

Family Recovery

Alcoholism and addiction do not happen in a vacuum. Loved ones are also affected, making it necessary to address this as part of recovery. Investigate options like couples therapy to help heal damaged marriages or relationships. Family therapy can help children, parents, and siblings to understand and contribute to the goal of continued sobriety.

A person who is brave enough to become sober may feel overwhelmed by recovery. Fortunately, it can be broken down into five segments: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and family. Valiant Living offers skilled treatment in all areas, allowing you to seize the day and reinvent yourself and your entire life. Our men-only Colorado location serves as the backdrop to choices like outpatient care, recovery housing, and transitional services. We offer trauma-focused care and treatment for dual diagnosis issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health illnesses. Call us now to get started on your recovery! (303) 952-5035.