Deciding to enter addiction treatment isn’t easy, but neither is continuing a life of addiction. The noteworthy difference between the two paths is clear: While the latter promises nothing more than increasing difficulty ahead, the former promises something extraordinary, hope for a better life. Looking for more specifics? Read on for a roundup of six ways your life will improve after seeking addiction treatment.
1. You’ll gain control over your life and your future
The life of an addict is governed entirely by addiction. Every decision you make and everything you do is driven by the desire for that next fix. This permeates everything you do and represents the ultimate loss of control. In seeking substance abuse treatment, you finally stop being a slave to your addictions and start being master of your own life. In essence, addiction treatment lets you start writing your own story.
2. You’ll feel amazing
While using may deceive you into thinking you feel great, the reality is that these euphoric feelings only last so long and are inevitably followed by withdrawal during which all you can think about is how and when you’ll get to use again. Substance abuse treatment not only liberates you from the physical chains of addiction, but also from the mental chains of addiction. It doesn’t happen instantly, but when it does, it’s its own kind of natural and wonderful high.
3. You’ll look better, too
Addiction wreaks havoc on your body and soul. Broken capillaries, eye bags, sallow skin, rotten teeth, and wrinkles are just a few of the visible symptoms of addiction. Getting help for your substance abuse packs a potent punch when it comes to your appearance. For starters, you stop using something that detrimentally impacts your appearance. Plus, when you stop devoting so much time to your addiction, you can start embracing all the things in life that make you look—and feel—your best.
4. Your relationships will become deeper and more secure
Because, for the most part, addicts’ relationships are built on lies, their lives are in a constant cycle of fighting, turmoil, anger, and drama—often involving the people they love and who love them the most. Substance abuse treatment strips away the lies and in doing so breaks down the barriers between addicts and their loved ones. The result is truly honest, supportive, and mutually fulfilling relationships.
5. You’ll enjoy richer, more meaningful experiences
While abusing drugs may heighten your senses in the short term, the reality is that drug abuse actually dulls your experiences because you’re either impaired by substances or by withdrawal at all times. When substances are taken out of the equation, your mind is liberated so that you can experience and process life to its fullest. Your productivity will also skyrocket when you’re no longer devoting so much time, energy, and effort to supporting your habit.
6. You’ll find your community
Addicts often end up spending time in the company of other addicts. These relationships are unhealthy, and yet they are the only ones that support and enable the life of an addict. In seeking treatment, you discover your true community—the people who will help, sustain, and support you in your new, addiction-free life.
We’re Here to Help
There is a better life waiting for you, and pursuing addiction treatment is an essential part of finding it. To learn about how Harris House has been helping addicts and their families on the journey to sobriety for more than 50 years, contact us today.