- Nov 20
- Drug Addiction Treatment
Recovering from addiction is a journey, and everyone’s road to sobriety is different. If you or your loved one is addicted to drugs or alcohol, recovery is the best chance for a fuller, happier life. To create this fuller, happier life, you need to know how to end your dependence on substances.
When you first acknowledge that you need to end substance misuse, the urge to do it solo may be strong. However, there are several risk factors associated with attempting to get sober alone.
WHY YOU SHOULDN’T TRY TO GET SOBER ON YOUR OWN
Ending drug or alcohol addiction can be incredibly challenging on your own. If you suspect you have a disorder, the best way to recover is with the help of a professional.
Many mental health experts recommend professional treatment over getting sober on your own for the following reasons:
1. Detoxing From Certain Substances Can Be Incredibly Dangerous
Attempting to detox from substances such as benzodiazepines and alcohol by yourself can lead to seizures and other medical complications. In the worst cases, dangerous withdrawal symptoms can result in death.
Attempting to quit certain drugs on your own without the proper support can also lead you to relapse in order to get rid of the withdrawal symptoms.
2. Getting Sober on Your Own Means Missing Out on Fellowship
Few communities are as welcoming, loving, and supportive as 12-step fellowships. Attempting to get sober on your own may cause you to bypass the opportunity to forge lasting friendships and meet a community of people going through the same challenges. The friends you meet in these fellowships will help you stay sober and stick to your long-term recovery goals through trying times.
At Gateway Foundation, our Twelve Step Facilitation (TSF) is an evidence-based curriculum demonstrated to be effective in significantly reducing subsequent use. The program’s is to encourage active involvement in Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and other 12-step fellowships.
3. Relating to Others Is Essential to Achieving Sobriety
The understanding that you are not alone in your impulses, actions, or thoughts is invaluable when you’re struggling with substance use disorder. Having someone tell you that what you’re thinking or feeling is not inherently flawed or strange can help alleviate sentiments of isolation and guilt.
Attempting to quit drugs on your own can leave you susceptible to the mistaken belief that you are the only one who feels and thinks the way you do, which can increase your urge to relapse.
RECEIVE CARE FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER AT GATEWAY FOUNDATION
Gateway Foundation now offers virtual outpatient programs, so we can help you get the help you need from wherever you are. We are in-network with our patients’ insurance providers and pride ourselves on offering quality, evidence-based treatments and a continuum of care.
Our caring, compassionate professionals are knowledgeable in Addiction Medicine. We also provide safe, effective treatments to address underlying issues like trauma, grief, loss, depression, and anxiety.
If you’re ready to start the road to recovery, contact us today.
