Addiction recovery is a lifelong process, and though the thought can be daunting, you can find support along the way. However, before taking that initial step toward treatment, there’s a much harder step people sometimes struggle with. That step is accepting that you’re facing addiction. Before seeking treatment and considering the possibility of entering into a program or facility, individuals must recognize and accept their struggle with substance use disorder (SUD). Only then can they take the necessary steps toward recovery.
Acknowledgment and acceptance of the issue are critical before anyone can begin their journey toward sobriety. We encourage you to seek treatment immediately if you’ve acknowledged and accepted your struggles. West Coast Recovery Centers helps people feel empowered and uses traditional and holistic practices to help clients achieve sustainable, long-term recovery. Visit our website to learn more about us and our addiction treatment services today.
Signs That You May Be Struggling With Addiction
Unfortunately, many individuals struggling with SUD are unaware of the problem. That goes for individuals struggling with drug addiction, alcohol use disorder (AUD), and even behavioral addictions. They may have a feeling deep down, but on the surface, it can be challenging to recognize the signs of addiction within oneself. That’s why relying on our loved ones can be vital, as they’ll sometimes recognize the signs before we do ourselves. Unfortunately, not everyone has the support of a loving family. Nevertheless, we can all recognize the signs of addiction within ourselves by learning what those signs are and increasing our overall self-awareness.
Some of the signs and symptoms to look for if you fear you’re struggling with addiction may include:
- Using substances more often and in larger amounts than usual
- Misusing prescription medications by not taking them as directed
- Spending an excessive amount of time procuring substances
- Experiencing a strong urge to use drugs or alcohol
- Having unsuccessful efforts to stop, reduce, or control substance use
- Spending more time recovering from the effects of substance use
- Stopping hobbies and activities that were once enjoyable to you
- Continuing substance use despite the problems it’s causing in your life
- Developing a greater tolerance to substances and needing to use more
- Feeling irritable, depressed, anxious, or experiencing intense mood swings
These are just a few potential signs and symptoms you may recognize within yourself. Remember, recognizing the signs is the first step. Following this, you must accept your need for professional help.
How Can I Find Self-Acceptance of My Struggle?
Believe it or not, self-acceptance is integral to the recovery journey. Accepting your struggle doesn’t mean making excuses for substance use or accepting that it’s okay. It simply means accepting the cards you’ve been dealt so that you can make a plan to heal from your struggles. Of course, doing so is easier said than done.
When we don’t accept our struggle with addiction, we sometimes find ourselves denying or fighting it. Other times we may not want to accept the consequences of our substance use. In any case, acceptance can be uncomfortable and messy, but it inspires reflection and motivates us to change. It’s part of the healing process, and trying to recover without it when facing addiction is inauthentic to the premise of sobriety.
It won’t always be easy, but some ways to gain self-acceptance include:
- Journaling thoughts and experiences
- Practicing mindfulness
- Questioning harmful habits
- Relying on support systems
- Reframing negative thinking patterns
Overcoming Feelings of Guilt and Shame When Facing Addiction
Another key part of the recovery journey is overcoming feelings of guilt and shame when facing addiction. Emotions are sometimes complicated, but they can be excellent motivators. For example, guilt never feels good. However, it helps us differentiate between right and wrong. The best way to overcome guilt is to use it as a compass toward making healthier life choices and as a motivational tool to encourage yourself to stay on track.
On the flip side, shame isn’t as productive. Whereas guilt tells us the difference between right and wrong, shame tells us that there’s something wrong with us. Not only is that notion false, but it’s unconducive to accepting your struggle and trying to heal from addiction.
You can begin managing these feelings of guilt and shame by:
- Understanding and recognizing the difference between these complex emotions
- Accepting yourself and your struggle with addiction
- Making amends and asking those you’ve hurt for forgiveness
- Living in the present by practicing mindfulness
- Remember that you are not your mistakes – they don’t define you
Facing Addiction Head-On
We can’t deny it; facing addiction and the road to recovery will take time and require a lot of work, but we promise it’s worth it. The best way to face your struggle with addiction and begin the healing journey is to face it head-on. That means recognizing the signs, accepting the struggle, and reaching out for help.
Consider working with West Coast Recovery Centers if you’re experiencing any signs of SUD. Our team will work tirelessly to get you the help you need and empower you to achieve sustainable recovery today.
Addiction recovery is a lifelong journey, and there are many steps to the process. However, individuals must learn to walk before they can run, and so, before we can seek addiction treatment, we must recognize and accept our struggles. Doing so is integral to facing addiction as a whole. Finding acceptance can be messy and complex, but first things first – do you recognize the signs and symptoms of addiction within yourself? Have your loved ones recognized concerning signs within your behavior? If so, it may be time for some self-reflection. Once you accept that you’re facing addiction, the true journey can begin. Call (760) 492-6509 to start that journey with West Coast Recovery Centers today.