An Alumni Perspective

Recovery from addiction, whether to drugs or alcohol, is something that is a life-long commitment. It takes continuous work in order to maintain sobriety and sometimes, triggers and temptation can make it difficult. Addicts must understand that treatment is not a ‘cure’ for your addiction; treatment lays the foundation for recovery which means you still must manage it each and every day. Treatment does not end once your recovery program has finished.

If you are attending treatment because you feel as though you are doing it as a favor for your family and friends, your sobriety will be short-lived. This is because you are not doing it for yourself. Since the disease of addiction is progressive, if you are not committed to sobriety, addiction will reappear back into your life.

When we decide to accept that path of recovery, you are willing to carve out a new life. The process of changing our thought-patterns can prove to be quite difficult which is why it’s important to seek the help of therapists and counselors throughout the process of recovery. This could mean seeking support even years after you have overcome your addiction.

What to Expect

  • Acceptance

Recovery is about accepting your new life and everything that comes with it. Accepting the fact that there will be hurdles along the way and challenges to overcome is part of your new life as a sober individual. Learning to accept new friends, accept a new career path, and accept a new outlook on life is all par for the course when going through the transition period of acceptance. Embracing these changes will make it easier to lead this new life of yours.

  • Progress not Perfection

Remember that you are going through one of the toughest parts of your entire life right now. Do not look for perfection. Instead, look for progression in your everyday life. Look at how far you have come and reward yourself for getting to this point.

  • Emotional Rollercoaster

With so many new changes happening in your life, it’s normal to get emotional and feel overwhelmed. This is simply part of the process of recovery. By attending support groups such as AA and NA, as well as meeting with a therapist, you can work to overcome these emotional barriers and begin to accept your new sober life.

Getting Help

Recovery will come with its fair share of struggles and you may feel as though they will never end. Over time, everything will become easier, but it does take constant work in order to maintain a positive mindset and outlook on life. It is possible to rehabilitate yourself and your life with the right support and recovery methods.

Joining an alumni group post-treatment can help you stay on the right path of recovery. Alumni programs offer support and can assist you in your recovery journey. You will be surrounded by individuals who are going through the same things that you and each individual can learn from one another and encourage each other.

Wounds will heal over time and you must not get discouraged, even in times of doubt. This is simply the process of recovery and you must stay strong and dedicated in order to obtain the desired outcome. Help is available today for those who are looking for assistance in managing their recovery.

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.