The modern world’s many conveniences have created an instant-gratification mindset, but in many cases, a more measured approach provides better results. Self-improvement – like learning a new skill or training to reach a fitness goal – takes time and effort. Similarly, addiction recovery can’t happen overnight. Here are the top reasons to consider a long-term addiction treatment program.
1. Relapse Prevention
Though there is no cure for addiction, a longer stay in a treatment program will equip you with more tools you can use to manage your disease for the rest of your life. You’ll also have time to work through your issues with a therapist, who can help identify the underlying causes of your substance use disorder and any co-occurring mental health issues.
You might feel tempted to choose a shorter program because the idea of hitting pause on your responsibilities seems overwhelming. However, if you try to rush through the process, you might put yourself at a higher risk of relapsing, especially in the touch-and-go stages of early recovery. The more time you spend working on your coping strategies, the better your chances of success when facing triggers that could spark a return to substance abuse.
2. Healing Your Brain and Body
Substance use disorders develop when your brain chemistry changes in response to ongoing drug or alcohol abuse. While the human brain has an incredible ability to adapt and stabilize after you stop using mood-altering substances, the process can take months.
Likewise, substance misuse takes a tremendous toll on your physical health in the form of issues like malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies and organ damage. In a well-rounded rehab program, you will have opportunities to regain your physical well-being through nutrition and exercise.
In other words, long-term addiction treatment starts building the foundation for your brain and body to reach an equilibrium, so you are less likely to experience challenging cravings and mood swings after transitioning back into the “real world.”
3. Family Therapy and Life Skills
Your drinking or drug problem doesn’t only affect you. Addiction also creates complex issues within a family dynamic, especially for women with children. In a long-term addiction program, you can take advantage of family therapy to start unraveling dysfunctional behaviors and rebuilding trust.
Healing from addiction requires you to understand the aspects of your life that contributed to your substance use issues, including poor boundaries and communications issues. Life skills workshops will help you gain confidence and lay the groundwork for a healthier future.
4. New Relationships
Committing to a new, sober lifestyle means you will need to make some significant changes, including in your relationships. You may have to cut ties with friends or family members who present obstacles to your success.
In long-term addiction treatment, you can meet other people who have encountered similar challenges and are now successfully working toward recovery. Many women who have found lasting freedom from addiction at Canyon Crossing have forged lifelong bonds of friendship, support, respect and love.
Long-Term Addiction Treatment, Outpatient and Transitional Living for Women
At Canyon Crossing, we recognize that women face unique challenges in substance abuse recovery. That’s why we’ve created a program to allow our clients to address their issues in a caring, single-gender environment. To verify your insurance or learn more about our unique treatment offerings, contact us today.