Stages of Drug Addiction Rehabilitation Process

Rehab is an extensive and comprehensive process aiming at improving your long-term health. This process could take between a few days and three months, depending on the severity of your condition. A patient will undergo various treatments while in the rehab facility. As such, you can expect multiple stages of the rehabilitation process. These stages include the following.

Pre-Contemplation

The pre-contemplation stage often shows that the individual is not ready for rehabilitation. During this phase, an individual is likely to keep justifying their behavior, acting defensively at all times. Thanks to misinformation and the inability to make informed decisions, many people remain in this stage for a long time. There are four categories of pre-contemplation: reluctant, rebellious, rationalizing, and resigned. A reluctant pre-contemplator is unaware of their problem, meaning they are not motivated to change.

A rebellious pre-contemplator is unwilling to let go of their behavior because they do not like being told what to do. While a rationalizing pre-contemplator believes they have all the answers, a resigned pre-contemplator has given up the hope of changing their addictive behavior.

Contemplation

At this stage, a person is aware that they have a problem and is willing to change. However, this individual is not sure whether to commit or not.

An individual is often more receptive to learning about the effects of behavioral changes. Yet, the person is still aware of the perceived benefits from their drug or alcohol addiction. That means family and friends should listen to and advise the individual accordingly, encouraging them to move to the next phase.

Unfortunately, someone can remain in this phase for several years without taking any meaningful action. While some could move to the next stage, others might revert to the pre-contemplation step. The best way to encourage the individual to move forward would be by avoiding accusations, judgment, and blame. Instead, let them understand the value that rehabilitation brings to the table.

Preparation

This phase comes in handy in the transformation or recovery journey. It often shows that the individual is willing and ready to take corrective measures. In most cases, an individual will willingly meet a professional to help assess their level of addiction. They could also get insights into programs that match their needs or preferences. This move allows them to choose the best treatment plan in the long run at The Process Recovery Center.

Action Stage

Real behavioral change starts at this stage. The individual will willingly and effortlessly go through long spells of abstinence, avoiding alcohol, drugs, and triggers. At the same time, you’ll witness their commitment to change. You can also expect the individual to turn to professionals for help, particularly those that work with substance-abuse addicts.

Notably, most individuals will consider treatment plans that address underlying issues. That means they can attend individual, family, and support group therapy. The idea is to understand themselves better, making it easier for them to maneuver the issue in the long run. In addition, expect the individual to develop excellent strategies to cope with triggers, stress, and social issues.

Maintenance

Undoubtedly, overcoming addiction requires significant effort and time. An individual needs all the support they need to avoid relapse. Therefore, the patient works hard to prevent relapse during the maintenance and relapse stage. This aspect could involve considerable behavioral and lifestyle changes, keeping the temptations away.

The maintenance stage is significantly prolonged, lasting between six months and five years. The duration will vary with the severity of the addiction and the individual’s commitment. Ultimately, termination will be possible.

In conclusion, an individual goes through various stages when recovering from addiction. Commitment and support will help make the entire process seem seamless. Always do so in the most critical steps.

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