Breaking free from addiction is a recovery journey, not a sprint!
Some individuals compare drug, alcohol, or substance addiction to a bad habit. Addiction is a relapsing, chronic disease that can be treated, whereas habit is a routine that can be difficult to break. Drugs activate the reward system in the brain. It makes it difficult to stop using a substance or engaging in a particular behavior. It takes time to develop an addiction. It can take months, even years.
Fortunately, you can break an addiction. But breaking the cycle of addiction can take even longer than developing it. Although it can be a daunting experience, healing is always possible. The recovery process requires dedication, time, and a willingness to alter your life toward sobriety.
The journey to breaking addiction is challenging, but the rewards are worth it!
This article will explore how long it takes to break an addiction and the journey to recovery. Let’s dig deeper and explore the factors on which the recovery time depends.
How Long Does It take to break an Addiction?
Addiction affects the individual’s brain. It can lead to a significant alteration in an individual’s behavior and decision-making patterns. Breaking an addiction is not like trying to stop biting your nails. So, a journey to addiction recovery takes time and courage. It really depends on the individual, the substance they are abusing, and their support system.
Individuals abuse the following drugs:
· Heroin
· Alcohol
· Opiates
· Fentanyl
· Marijuana
· Crack cocaine etc.
There is no easy and quick way to determine how long does it take to break. Several factors can influence the success of the recovery process. These factors make this process a lifelong journey. Let’s look at them.
Factors That Impact Addiction Recovery
Addiction treatments are the first step in reclaiming your life and finding freedom. Each person’s experience with addiction is unique. Typically, it results from biological, psychological, and social variables. Such variables contribute to the length of recovery time of their journey.
1. Addiction Type and Severity
The severity and type of addiction can have a significant impact on recovery. Some addictions, like opioids or alcohol, can have severe physical withdrawal symptoms. Such symbols may need medical detoxification. In contrast, some addictions, like excessive internet usage or gambling, may require different treatment modalities.
2. Co-occurring Disorders
Most people with addiction can also suffer from co-occurring mental health issues. These issues include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. The addiction recovery process can be more challenging with such mental health issues. It may require additional treatment to address addiction.
3. Support System
Unfortunately, weak relationships can be a significant source of stress and anxiety for many recovering from addiction. This can include your family, friends, and support groups. A supportive and positive environment offers encouragement, motivation, and accountability throughout recovery.
4. True Willingness
Personal commitment and true motivation are critical aspects of ongoing recovery. The process will need effort and action if a patient is willing to recover quickly. Long-term recovery is more likely for people prepared to accept responsibility for their addiction. They actively participate in the treatment process and positively change their lives.
5. Environmental Influence
Environmental impact is something most individuals understand on a fundamental level. It can also influence addiction recovery. If you have easy access to alcohol or drugs, you may find it harder to recover. Here are some ways your environment affects your recovery time.
· Digital environments can hinder recovery
· Social temptations can facilitate relapse
· Family dynamics can amplify stress and addiction
· Unresolved childhood stress shapes addictive behaviors
· 9 to 5 work environments can trigger relapse behaviors
· Physical environments can affect mental health and addiction
The solution to all such environmental challenges to a sober life is to join a treatment center. A treatment center’s safe and supportive environment can help you overcome your addiction.
What’s the Expected Recovery Time for Addiction
Addictive disorders are diseases that can cause psychological and physical damage. So, the time for recovery will differ from person to person!
Some people recover within a few months, while others take years. According to University College London research, breaking a habit usually takes 66 days, ranging from 18 to 254. But once a person breaks the addiction, they must be more careful in the future not to get trapped in this cycle again.
Ways To Break the Addiction Cycle
Addiction is not a weakness. The right treatments will help you discover your inner strength. Receiving treatment is crucial for breaking the cycle of addiction. To find the estimated breaking time of a recovery process, one can experience their suitable way according to their needs. Below are some ways to break the addiction cycle.
1. Professional Help
The first way to break an addiction is to seek professional help. There are several treatment options available. It can be an inpatient and outpatient treatment program, counseling meetup, or joining a support group. If you want a personalized treatment plan, the Asheville Recovery Center in North Carolina is best for you. It offers a comprehensive addiction treatment program that addresses your specific needs.
Ø How long does it take to break an addiction with professional help?
Typically, professional help can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the individual’s needs.
2. Detoxification
Detoxification comes first in a therapy plan. The process includes limiting withdrawal symptoms and removing a drug from the body. According to the SAMHSA, in 80% of cases, a treatment center will use medicine to lessen withdrawal symptoms. A person who is dependent on multiple substances will frequently require medication to ease the symptoms of withdrawal.
Ø How long does it take to break an addiction by detoxification?
The detoxification process can last from a few days to a few weeks. It also depends on the severity of the addiction and the individual’s physical health.
3. Behavioral Therapies
After detoxification, this type of addiction treatment is most frequently used. Depending on the person’s needs, behavioral therapy can be provided in a group, a family, or an individual setting. The initial phase of this treatment is intensive. The number of counseling sessions progressively decreases as symptoms get better. The different treatment therapies can be:
· Motivational incentives
· Motivational interviewing
· Cognitive-behavioral therapy
· Multi-dimensional family therapy
Ø How long does it take to break an addiction through behavioral therapies?
The expected recovery time for behavioral therapies can deviate depending on the type and severity of addiction and the individual’s response to treatment.
4. Rehabilitation Programs
Rehab programs for substance-related and addictive disorders offer comprehensive and longer-term treatment. Such programs emphasize maintaining drug-free status and resuming function within career, social, and family duties. Many residential facilities that are fully licensed are available to set up a 24-hour care program. They provide a secure living space and any required medical interventions or help.
Ø How long does it take to break addiction through rehabilitation programs?
The expected recovery time for rehabilitation centers can be a few months to a year or more, depending on the individual’s willingness for a speedy recovery.
The Value of Asheville Recovery Center
It is not easy to overcome an addiction and find true healing. Do you like to take back control of your energy?
It is possible with the proper support, dedication, and commitment. In Asheville, North Carolina, at the Asheville Recovery Center, we understand the complexities of addiction. So, we foster a supportive and safe environment for healing with compassionate, non-judgmental approaches.
Recovery is not a destination. It is a journey we walk with you every step of the way!
Working with Asheville can help you overcome your addiction and achieve long-term recovery. When anyone enrolls in our treatment program, our specialists will work with them to create a treatment plan tailored to their needs. Staying committed to the treatment plan is vital so you can earn an independent life.
What’s on the horizon?
We provide hope and healing for those struggling with addiction. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you or your loved one is struggling with drug treatment. Recovery is possible, and the journey starts with taking the first step toward seeking professional help.
Take advantage of the many available services offered by Asheville Recovery. Read more about addiction treatment at Asheville Recovery Center’s blog. Also, be sure to contact us at (828) 518-6996 to get immediate treatment help! Let’s talk!
