Self Awareness In Addiction Recovery

The Importance Of Self Awareness In Addiction Recovery

A person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol is robbed of their self awareness. He or she wanders in a space where emotions are out of control, beliefs are lost, and strengths and weaknesses cancel each other out. The addict is left with nothing to stop a life that is spiraling out of control. Self awareness in addiction recovery is necessary to recognize personal power, set goals, and communicate effectively.

Self Awareness In Addiction Recovery

Lack of self awareness causes a negative impact on the life of an addict and steals his or her ability to focus on life and where it is headed. Emotions are out of control, and there is no personal inner strength to call on. The addict can rarely look beyond getting his or her next fix or drink. According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) self awareness in addiction recovery is a necessary life skill to set goals and prevent relapse. Without self awareness the addict is unaware of the dangers that are ahead both physically and mentally. Self awareness in addiction recovery provides a key ingredient in the recipe for a better life with less risk of relapse down the road.

The Importance Of Self Awareness In Recovery

Self awareness is a basic life skill that every person requires to face the demands, stresses, and challenges that are faced each day at home, on the job, and in social settings. The importance of self awareness in recovery is essential to move towards a positive result and to reduce the risk of a future relapse. Recovering and restoring self awareness is vital to a successful addiction recovery program. Self awareness opens the addicts eyes to the harm he or she is causing loved ones and his- or herself. WhiteSands Addiction Treatment Center’s professionally trained staff helps the addict restore the ability to be aware of who he or she is, communicate effectively, control emotions, contribute to family and society, establish meaningful relationships, and live a productive life. Restoring self awareness provides the addict with the following tools for his or her recovery:

  • Establish and achieve goals
  • Maintain successful relationships
  • Recognize strengths and weaknesses
  • Act instead of react
  • Establish a belief system
  • Control their behavior
  • Navigate problems

Recovery doesn’t mean life will be perfect because there is no such thing, but it arms the recovering addict with the power he or she requires to face and deal with life and its ups and downs. Self awareness means the person knows who they are and what they want from life.

Emotions And Addiction Recovery

People are emotional beings and can be sad, happy, grumpy, excited, nervous and afraid all in a single day. Emotions are transitory and fleeting. People dealing with addiction tend to grab onto a negative emotion as if it was a permanent condition and he or she will never be able to get rid of the feeling. When an addict does experience a positive emotion, they become depressed because it doesn’t last. Emotions and addiction recovery involves accepting the feeling in the moment and knowing it is temporary. Learning to recognize and control the emotions that appear on a daily basis is a basic principle in the recovery process.

WhiteSands Addiction Treatment Center takes people through detox, rehab, and recovery. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction of any kind, call them today. Be proactive in gaining help to recover your, or a loved one’s, self awareness, and gain the upper hand in the recovery process.

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.

About the Author

is a proud alumni member of WhiteSands Treatment. After living a life of chaos, destruction and constant let downs, Mark was able to make a complete turnaround that sparked a new way of life. He is serious about his recovery along with helping others. At WhiteSands Treatment, we offer support to you in your homes or when you are out living in your daily lives.