The Keys to Living a Drug-Free Life

There are many factors involved in the equation of staying drug free. While no equation is exactly right from one addict to another, meaning no two drug addiction recovery programs are exactly the same, there are several variables that are quite similar. For starters, a person must realize that successful recovery includes much more than staying clean from drugs. True recovery is an ongoing process that includes mental, emotional, and spiritual growth.

Key Factor #1: Successful Addiction Recovery Completion

One of the key factors involved with living a drug-free life is successfully completing a treatment program. According to studies, the highest rate (70 percent) of substance abuse treatment completion occurs within long-term residential treatment facilities. Short-term residential programs also have a high completion rate (59 percent). On the flip side, outpatient services tend to have a low completion rate (44 percent). Keeping this in mind, if someone is in search of successful recovery, it is pertinent to evaluate which type of treatment will be the most valuable, and according to statistics, it is probably best to enter into a residential program, whether it is at a treatment center or through some type of short-term program.

Key Factor #2: Hope

Without hope, an addict will not be able to successfully stay clean from drugs. He or she must have hope in the fact that the recovery is real and attainable. There must be hope that the obstacles and barriers endured during recovery can be overcome. Unfortunately, many addicts have no hope; therefore, after entering into treatment, they drop out. In fact, over 25 percent of people who enter into recovery drop out due to their own choosing.

Key Factor #3: Self-Determination

No one can decide for an addict that successful recovery can be obtained. It is the addict's responsibility to decide for himself or herself that living a drug-free life will be accomplished.

Key Factor #4: Support Groups

An addict most definitely did not become addicted to a substance on his or her own. He or she had a culture that influenced the negative choices, and just the same, he or she will need support to live a drug-free life. Such support groups come in many forms; some of the most common being found within religious organizations. Other great places to turn to for support include friends and family members. In fact, addicts with close family support are much more likely to live a drug-free life than those who do not have the support.

Key Factor #5: Life-Encompassing

True addiction recovery does not focus solely on a person's addiction problem. In addition, it also focuses on an individual's mind, body, and spirit. By growing in and focusing on each of these areas, a drug-free life is much more likely to take place.

Key Factor #6: Addressing Trauma

To live a drug-free life, an addict must face and address any past or current trauma that has taken or is taking place in his or her life. To effectively accomplish this, it is best to obtain services from a professional substance abuse therapist. Many times, traumatic experiences that need to be dealt with include physical abuse and domestic violence situations; however, there are many other traumatic experiences that a person can go through.

Key Factor #7: Steering Clear of Old Friends

A large number of addicts are able to successfully complete treatment and maintain sobriety for an extended period of time; however, once running into old friends, such as those that they used to do drugs with, they can fall right back into their old addictive habits. Steering clear of old friends is one of the most important keys in being able to live a drug-free life.

Key Factor #8: Developing Patience

Another key factor in being able to live a drug-free life is the development of patience. Addicts must be patient with themselves, understanding that recovery is a lifelong process, as well as one that will have its ups and downs.

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Latest Statistics on Discharges from Substance Treatment Service