Addiction can be a silent adversary because you may not realize when casual drinking or smoking becomes a habit. Before you know it, you lose control, and the habit may become difficult to quit. The problem is more widespread than you imagine, with nearly 107 million people around the world struggling with alcohol use disorder. And it’s just one of the many addictions people are vulnerable to.
While the numbers are scary, recovery is fortunately possible. According to a survey, 36% of subjects suffering from addiction recovered after one year. Nearly 18% achieved low-risk drinking after a year, and 18% were able to abstain completely one year later. While these statistics are encouraging, the road to recovery is long and full of hurdles.
Going solo compounds the challenges of addiction recovery because most addicts need help and support. The best way to achieve your deaddiction goals is by seeking therapy and counseling support from people who know the job.
Here are a few valid reasons for not navigating the healing journey solo and looking for a helping hand:
Emotional Support is Vital
Research establishes a connection between addiction and mental health. People with addiction issues are more vulnerable to mental health problems, such as anxiety, stress, trauma and depression. Most of these issues require professional treatment. Going solo means overlooking them, which can aggravate your addiction and worsen your mental health.
Joining an addiction treatment program helps you deal with both issues effectively and sustainably. You get a chance to discuss your emotions with a mental health specialist during individual counseling sessions. Group therapy is valuable as it lets you open up to other people recovering from addiction so you do not fear being judged.
According to the Canadian Centre for Addictions, rehab programs provide a safe space for healing and emotional expression. Further, they educate patients about healthy coping mechanisms and help them build resilience against future challenges. You never get the same when trying to recover alone.
Being Alone Limits Your Perspective
According to the Cleveland Clinic, substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex issue involving problematic patterns. Irrespective of the substance you are addicted to, you need to broaden your perspective to understand the condition. Going solo limits that perspective, as you cannot understand your triggers and the extent of your problem.
Conversely, working with professionals gets you the guidance you need to walk back on the road to recovery. Likewise, teaming up with people who have walked the same path offers help through shared experiences. Both ways, you can find actionable coping mechanisms to help you sustain sobriety for the long haul.
Isolation May Lead to Relapse
Statistics show that substance use disorders have a 40-60% relapse rate. The numbers are similar to the relapse rates for chronic diseases such as hypertension or asthma. The last thing you want is to fall for the temptation again after several weeks or months of hard work and self-control. Navigating your deaddiction journey alone can elevate the risk of relapse.
Addiction thrives in isolation because it makes a person vulnerable, no matter how committed they are to avoiding triggers. Without a support system, you may be unable to control your feelings when cravings strike. Conversely, a therapist, loved one or fellow patient can give you the encouragement you need to stick to your goals.
Going Solo Means Lack of Accountability
Another downside of going solo on your de-addiction journey is that it translates into a lack of accountability. For anyone trying to overcome addiction, accountability can be a game-changer. It is like being answerable for your actions. Being accountable to a family member, friend, support group, or therapist enables you to stay committed to your deaddiction goals.
Even if you face setbacks along the way, sharing them with a support network creates a sense of responsibility and boosts resilience. There is hardly a chance of slipping back into old habits with people watching you. On the other hand, no one is around to your achievements or to motivate you to keep moving forward when you go solo.
Missing Out on Peer Empathy
Research suggests that individuals dealing with addiction may experience comfort in group therapy sessions because they provide a social aspect to rehab. Going solo means missing out on peer empathy and support, both of which are key elements of long-term recovery. Additionally, peer groups offer a sense of belonging and community as everyone shares common goals.
Peer empathy can be reassuring and comforting, coming from people who understand and identify with your challenges on a profound level. Listening to stories and sharing experiences can foster hope that recovery is possible. When you walk alone, you feel deprived of this valuable emotional connection.
Absence of a Structured Approach to Recovery
A structured approach can make all the difference to the outcomes of a recovery initiative for someone struggling with addiction. For example, you get a well-defined framework with realistic goals, milestones and timelines with a professional treating you. Joining support groups also helps through regular meetings and tried-and-tested coping strategies.
With these structures, you are more likely to stay on course. On the other hand, you may lose sight of your objectives and become disorganized when trying to recover alone. You may miss out on the momentum required to maintain sobriety, no matter how hard you work initially.
Final Thoughts
Addiction can affect your health, work efficiency, finances and relationships. As you lose control, you may end up missing out on the best parts of your life. The worst part is that recovery can be challenging if addiction goes beyond limits. However, you can still find your way back, provided you are committed to cleansing for good and sustaining the results.
While the recovery journey differs for everyone, you should not try walking alone on the long road. You must accept the need for help and work with professionals and peers to ease the process. Going solo may be an option, but it is not the right one because you may never achieve your deaddiction goals without help.