Recovery from addiction is not an overnight process. It requires patience, dedication, and resilience. Understanding what the five stages of recovery are can provide a roadmap and help those in recovery to navigate the journey ahead. At Washburn Houes, our addiction treatment programs in Worcester, MA, incorporate these five stages of recovery into our treatment plans to support our clients in their journey toward a successful and lasting recovery.
Call our compassionate time at 855.298.3104 today to learn how we can help you or a loved one begin the path to recovery.
The Five Stages of Recovery
What are the five stages of recovery? The five stages of recovery are pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance.
- Pre-contemplation – During this stage, individuals may not realize that they have a problem. They might be in denial about their addiction, or they may not understand the consequences of their substance abuse.
- Contemplation – In this stage, individuals begin to acknowledge that they have a problem and start to consider making a change. However, they may still feel ambivalent about taking the necessary steps towards recovery.
- Preparation – During the preparation stage, individuals decide to make a change and begin to plan their course of action. This might involve seeking help from professionals, joining a support group, or researching addiction treatment programs.
- Action – This is the stage where individuals implement their plan and take active steps towards recovery. This might include entering an addiction treatment program, attending meetings, or making lifestyle changes to support their recovery.
- Maintenance – In the maintenance stage, individuals work to sustain the changes they have made and avoid relapse. This stage requires ongoing commitment and may involve continued participation in support groups or therapy.
It is important to note that these stages are not linear, and individuals may move back and forth between them before achieving lasting recovery. Recovery is a continuous process, and each individual’s journey will be unique. At Washburn House, we understand the importance of addressing each stage of recovery in a comprehensive treatment plan.
How to Be Patient with Yourself
Patience is crucial throughout the recovery process. Change does not happen overnight, and it is normal to experience setbacks along the way. Remember to celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and to be gentle with yourself when things do not go as planned. The following are a few tips on how to be patient while going through the steps of recovery:
- Practice self-compassion – Be kind and understanding towards yourself. Recovery is a difficult journey, and it’s important to treat yourself with the same compassion you would show to others.
- Focus on the present moment – Instead of getting caught up in negative thoughts about the past or worries about the future, try to stay present in each moment. This can help alleviate feelings of impatience.
- Set realistic expectations – Recovery takes time, and it’s important to set realistic goals for yourself. Don’t put pressure on yourself to have everything figured out quickly.
- Reach out for support – Having a strong support system can make all the difference in staying patient during recovery. Lean on loved ones, attend meetings or therapy sessions, and turn to your treatment program for guidance and support.
Recovery is a challenging process, and it’s normal to face obstacles along the way. This is where resilience comes in. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from difficult situations and setbacks.
Call Washburn House Today to Start Your Recovery Journey
Your journey to recovery begins with a single step. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, Washburn House is here to help. Our dedicated team can guide you through each stage of recovery and provide the support you need to achieve lasting change. Call us today at 855.298.3104 or reach out online to learn more about our addiction treatment programs and to start your recovery journey.