When the Status Quo Doesn’t Work: Other Options to Help with Addiction Recovery
Guilt, shame, and feeling like a failure are some of the most common emotions felt by those who are coming out of addiction. And if the status-quo 12-step program ends up not working, it can make the weight of those emotions even heavier.
Thankfully, your efforts don’t have to stop at AA. There’s a growing number of other options to consider if you’re trying to get your life back on track. Here, fitness consultant David Dummett presents a few recovery methods that have helped many people like you.
Other Recovery Programs
If you like the structure of conventional 12-step programs but the doctrine or perspective hasn’t worked for you, there are several alternative programs that could be a better fit.
SMART Recovery is a four-point program that adopts a cognitive-behavioral approach to address the environmental and emotional factors related to substance abuse and focuses on how members respond to them.
SOS and LifeRing are support group programs that stress self-empowerment and remaining abstinent “no matter what.” Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step program that has a similar structure to AA, but it’s more Christ-centered, fueled by biblical principles, and it deals with all kinds of addictions.
If the rigidity of AA and similar programs has sincerely held you back from bettering yourself, then one of these programs may work for you. However, you should avoid these alternative groups if you’re just looking for more room to drink or use.
Medication Assisted Treatment
By implementing a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and counseling, medication-assisted treatment (MAT)has proven to help recovering addicts detox from substances like alcohol and opioids. Some people find that medications make the recovery process more manageable because they can cut out—or at least calm—withdrawal symptoms.
Participants are commonly administered methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, which some critics view as substituting one drug for another. While MAT has proven to effectively treat addiction for many people, some end up addicted to the prescribed medications.
After taking an honest assessment of yourself, if you think it’s likely that you’ll become addicted to the medications, it’s probably best to avoid MAT altogether.
Biochemical Restoration
SafeSpace notes that one of the newer methods that’s beginning to play an important role in substance abuse treatment is biochemical restoration. The treatment seeks to improve chemical imbalances in the brain, amino acid imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, adrenal fatigue, and other imbalances that make someone more prone to addiction.
A person is assessed for imbalances and then given an individual biochemical restoration plan, such as a nutrition plan, micronutrient supplements, and a prescribed fitness and relaxation regimen.
Proponents believe that restoring balance will aid in relapse prevention because it improves mood and helps combat depression, anxiety, and stress. Biochemical restoration works best as a supplement to other recovery modalities and shouldn’t be the only method you rely on to get better.
Rethink Your Work
For many addicts, work can be a major source of stress that drives them back to substance use. If you’ve found yourself prone to relapse because of your work environment, consider looking into a home-based business.
It can give you the freedom you need to focus on your recovery while removing you from an environment that endangers your sobriety. Options for starting your own business are plentiful, ranging from full to part time work performing tasks writing, tutoring, sewing, cooking, or lawn and garden care.
Know When to Try Inpatient Rehab
When alternative addiction solutions fail to produce the desired results, seeking inpatient rehab treatment may be the solution. Inpatient rehab centers offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking to overcome addiction. When researching the best facility for your needs, check into their levels of care, accreditation, and client reviews.
With access to trained medical professionals and evidence-based treatments, individuals can receive the level of care necessary to achieve long-term sobriety. Seeking inpatient rehab treatment may be the best option for those who have struggled with addiction for an extended period and require more intensive support to achieve recovery.
Find Your Own Path to Recovery
Don’t lose heart if you’ve tried conventional 12-step programs and they didn’t work. If you prefer structured meetings, look into an alternative program that offers a different perspective. If you’re confident that medication can give you a better shot at bettering yourself, consult a professional about MAT and biochemical restoration. There is a recovery solution for you.
Fitness consultant David Dummett specializes in kinesiology and biotechnology. Connect with David today to learn more!
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