Addiction Recovery

Addiction is usually understand to be the compulsive physiological need for and use of a habit-forming substance such as alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, or heroin. This compulsion is characterized by tolerance of the substance and the presence of well-defined symptoms upon the individual’s cessation of the substance. Recovery can be defined as the act of returning to a normal or healthy state, though it is sometimes described as return to any former and better state of being. Addiction treatment and recovery can therefore be defined as returning to and maintaining a life free from the habits and compulsion of addiction.

There are a number of schools of belief as to the roots of drug and alcohol addiction. Some hold that addiction is a disease that impairs either the neurochemical or behavioral processes of the patient, or both. Others look to a model of genetic predisposition to specific addictions. There are also models that attribute addiction to experience, cultural factors, morality, and habit. Those who believe in a blended dependency believe that addiction is different for each individual and that a combination of factors most likely contributes to their problem. Only by identifying the specifics of each case can effective treatment be designed.

One of the defining addiction recovery programs for substance addictions and drug abuse to be developed in the 20th century was the 12-step program pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous and later adapted into Narcotics Anonymous and other groups. These programs believe that an addict is always an addict and must be constantly vigilant in order to combat the temptations of relapsing into their personal addiction. 12-step programs are also founded on the belief that an addict is best helped by another addict. An addict-run system of meetings and one-to-one sponsorship teach and support addicts as they work through the twelve steps of recovery.

To see the success of the 12-step program, look to the number of hospitals, private counselors, and inpatient rehabilitation centers that incorporate 12-step programs into their initial treatment and/or to the continuing treatment once the initial program is complete. All 12-step programs recognize that the only way for an addict to fully recover a normal life, is for her or him to take control of their own process. Without their commitment and diligence, recovery will be fleeting and addiction will regain control over their lives.

Many other alcohol and drug addiction recovery programs exist that are not based on the 12-step model. HAMS Harm Reduction Network supports "any positive change" in an addict’s relationship with the substance they abuse. (HAMS stands for Harm Reduction, Abstinence, and Moderation.) The Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS) focuses on sobriety through mutual support while emphasizing rational decision-making rather than spiritually-based recovery. Recovery (Self Management and Recovery Training) is a secular and science-based organization that supports individuals seeking abstinence. The International Organisation of Good Templars has supported temperance since the 19th century. Women for Sobriety was founded in 1976 as a non-religious support group for alcoholic women that attempts to increase members’ self-esteem. One of the latest recovery trends to emerge is Online Addiction Recovery (aka Internet Addiction Recovery). This movement espouses support, empowerment, respect, hope, and choice via online communication. It is sometimes utilized as part of a more comprehensive addiction treatment program that encompasses traditional (offline) treatment options.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) cautions that recovery is a long-term process that may require multiple courses of treatment. They have identified key principals that should be present to ensure effective treatment.

Effective treatment is readily available and matched to the individual. There is no "one size fits all" in addiction recovery programs. Treatments should address more than just the addiction, recognizing that the individual has additional, specific needs. Addiction treatment should last for an adequate period of time to ensure effectiveness and the treatment plan should be reviewed and revised to suit the patient’s evolving needs. Counseling and behavioral therapy are crucial components while medical treatment of withdrawal symptoms is only helpful in the early stages. Addiction treatment should address medical and health issues of patients and counsel them on avoiding infectious diseases. Access to the abused substance should be monitored. Most importantly, they found that treatment can succeed even when it is involuntary.

NIDA’s research shows that successful addition recovery is possible, allowing individuals to achieve a life free from abuse and addiction, armed with the necessary skills and support to avoid relapse.

About Gatehouse Academy:

Gatehouse Academy is a long term residential addiction recovery facility exclusively for young adults age 17 – 25. Residents learn life skills, attend therapy, continue formalized education, enhance physical well-being, and recover from the effects of alcohol and drug abuse through focused 12 Step Recovery. To learn more contact us on (888) 730.0905 or through our contact form.