The recovering individual goes through specific stages to acquire the skills necessary to maintain sobriety. This abuse usually results in serious consequences such as a breakdown of the family or loss of employment. Recent research indicates that early intervention by family, friends, employers, or treatment professionals can start the recovery process before this crisis period occurs, although it is often the crisis which forces the individual to seek help. Another important component is education for the individual regarding addiction and strategies for attitudinal and behavioral changes. These considerations create the groundwork for recovery.
Chemical dependence is a family disease.
Family members and friends can learn how to cope with the recovering person and how to discontinue enabling behaviors that encourage drug use. Involvement in a 12-step program such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous provides a valuable source of support and assistance at no cost. The recovering person chooses treatment because he is unable to cope with his drug-related problems by himself. The individual learns to process the events which helped him realize he was addicted and brought him into treatment. A counselor helps to produce motivation for recovery and encourages a structured treatment program and drug-free lifestyle.