People often have a skewed perspective on their actions, thoughts, feelings, and beliefs while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Substance abuse can change how people interact with and understand the world around them. Thus, recovering from substance use disorder (SUD) often involves changing perspectives.
According to the online publication titled Enhancing Motivation for Change in Substance Use Disorder by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “The emotional state in which the client comes to treatment is an important part of the context in which counseling begins.” West Coast Recovery Centers helps clients heal from substance abuse and reduce the risk of relapse by using therapy and other methods to show people new ways to look at recovery.
Changing Perspectives Positively Impacts Emotions, Beliefs, and Behaviors
Finding healthy ways to change perspectives about substance abuse and addiction recovery can improve people’s emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. An individual’s emotions, beliefs, and behaviors are directed by their personal goals and the choices they make based on their perceptions. Discovering new perspectives helps people heal and build a solid foundation for a healthier future.
Clients in treatment change their perspectives by doing the following:
- Being mindful of their actions, thoughts, behaviors, and emotional reactions
- Actively listening to the people around them and openly communicating their needs
- Learning about the realities of addiction and the recovery process
- Building essential coping skills and tools
- Learning to establish and respect personal boundaries
Perspectives are based on what people know and experience. Discovering new information and having positive experiences ensure better outcomes for individuals in recovery. How people view themselves and others directly affects every aspect of their internal experience. New perspectives often inspire positive changes.
Benefits of Looking at Recovery From a New Point of View
Many people go through the cycle of treatment, recovery, relapse, and return to treatment multiple times before successfully maintaining long-term sobriety. People stop the cycle of relapse by thinking of recovery from a new point of view. Therapy sessions, peer interactions, and family support all impact how people view themselves and their recovery.
According to the Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment, “Addiction is a chronic condition; there may not be a complete or permanent solution (i.e., the risk of relapse may remain for multiple years) but it can be treated and managed.” Maintaining abstinence and improving quality of life is the goal of addiction recovery treatment. By looking at SUD as a condition to be managed instead of a disease to be cured, some people feel less pressure to meet unrealistic expectations. Psychotherapy is one of the most common tools for increasing self-awareness and reducing unnecessary stress. The therapist offers an outside, objective point of view clients use to reassess their self-image and goals.
Individual and Group Therapy
Group and individual therapy offers people a safe and comfortable space to analyze their thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and behaviors without fear of judgment. Therapists provide insights, guidance, and support. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “In general, the goals of psychotherapy are to gain relief from symptoms, maintain or enhance daily functioning, and improve quality of life.” West Coast Recovery Centers uses multiple therapeutic modalities to help clients manage their condition and learn practical ways to reframe their experiences.
Peer Engagement and Support
Social support is another critical tool in addiction recovery. People often find it easier to think of others with empathy and compassion. By connecting with people who share similar life experiences and recovery goals, clients can learn to treat themselves with the kindness and grace they deserve. According to Psychology Research and Behavior Management, self-acceptance and “[s]elf-forgiveness requires a cognitive reframing of one’s views of the self . . . which takes place after an individual has entered the process of introspection.” Peer engagement and group therapy make it easier for clients to practice healthy introspection and develop more realistic recovery goals.
How Does West Coast Recovery Centers Facilitate Changing Perspectives?
West Coast Recovery Centers uses many therapeutic methods to help clients change how they approach their condition and recovery. Altering perspectives often involves many one-on-one discussions with the care team, peers, and support staff. Some people may find it easier to express their concerns about recovery or self-image issues if they spend time talking with others going through similar experiences. Family members also provide essential support and help loved ones reframe their thoughts and beliefs. Clinicians facilitate healthier perspectives by modeling positive behaviors, educating clients on the realities of addiction, and using evidence-based methods to treat symptoms impacting mental health.
Family Therapy and Changing Perspectives Together
People in recovery may have unhealthy family dynamics that perpetuate maladaptive behaviors or thought patterns. Family therapy allows clients and their loved ones to heal together and learn better ways to manage stress or conflict within relationships. West Coast Recovery Centers uses family therapy and other support services to help clients and their loved ones develop deeper bonds and recover from the damage caused by addiction.
How people think about themselves and their place in the world affects recovery from substance abuse. Often, people with SUD struggle with low self-esteem and self-worth. Treatment programs help clients gain new perspectives and allow them to create a more objective self-image. Psychotherapy, peer support, self-help groups, and family therapy provide clients with insights and new ways of thinking about recovery. West Coast Recovery Centers encourages clients to take advantage of these treatments and services to reduce internalized stigmas and other stressors impacting mental health during treatment. Adopting a more positive perspective on life and addiction recovery reduces symptoms of SUD and helps clients heal more effectively. To learn more about our programs, call us today at (760) 492-6509.