By Haley Crim

Addiction disorder is a struggle that affects many Americans, who often have trouble learning how to heal and recover. Some of the best methods for recovering from alcohol use disorder, substance use disorder, and other types of addictions include sober living, healthy relationships, and more. 

Healthy People 2030 reports that over 20 million people in the United States currently suffer from substance use addictions, which can include alcohol and drugs. However, that data does not include other types of addictions, such as gambling, which can be equally devastating. 

Whether you are in active addiction or in recovery, you may be wondering how you can conquer your addiction once and for all. Here are crucial tips. 

What Is Addiction Disorder? 

Addiction disorder is an umbrella term that covers all types of addiction and how they physically and psychologically change those who suffer from them. Its primary characteristic is the inability to stop using a substance or engaging in a harmful behavior. 

What Are the Three Types of Addicts?

When you think of addicts, you probably picture someone who has issues with drugs or alcohol. There are actually three types of addicts, all of which have different characteristics, but can sometimes overlap. 

Substance Addicts

Substance addicts are the most well-known subtype. Substance addicts are typically addicted to one or more substances, which can include recreational or prescription drugs, alcohol, and more. 

Many substances leave the user in physical withdrawal if they cannot constantly maintain their high. Physical addiction is the primary motivator for continuing to drink or use drugs. 

Process Addicts

Process addicts suffer from addiction to the steps involved in addictive behaviors. Some of the most common triggers for process addicts are gambling and online shopping, both of which can produce the psychological “high” that they are looking for. 

While process addicts do not deal with the same types of physical withdrawal symptoms as those with substance abuse problems, giving up the destructive habits can take an emotional or psychological toll. 

Behavior Addicts

Behavior addictions involve the compulsion to exhibit behaviors that can result in negative consequences. Typical behaviors include:

  • Sex
  • Shopping 
  • Gambling
  • Stealing
  • Exercise

While these habits also do not have physical withdrawal, giving them up can cause agitation. The compulsive behaviors may also result in unforeseen consequences, such as gambling or credit card debts. 

Strategies for Healing From Addictive Diseases 

Once you have identified that you have a problem with addiction, treatment and healing are the next logical steps. The options, though, can seem overwhelming. Here are a few solutions that you can implement today. 

Consider Inpatient Treatment 

Inpatient treatment is ideal if you are deep into a substance use disorder and you cannot face the withdrawal symptoms on your own. In fact, alcohol withdrawal can actually cause death. Inpatient treatment allows you to navigate the withdrawal process comfortably and avoid triggers while you detox. 

Most importantly, inpatient treatment offers a focused, supportive environment. You will not have to worry about external factors, such as your job or your family. The main goal is to invest in your recovery. 

Try Sober Living

If you find yourself unhoused after your addiction treatment, or you want to move away from a triggering environment, sober living is a good option. Individuals in sober living maintain a household that is free of drugs and alcohol. Additionally, they resume their normal lives, going to work or visiting friends and family during the day. 

Affordable sober living at Gambit Recovery offers a structured environment for residents who take their recovery seriously. 

Invest in Healthy Friendships 

Following your initial treatment, you may need to distance yourself from friends or family members who are still in active addiction. Find new friends with whom you can engage in activities that do not involve drugs, alcohol, or other addictive behaviors. 

Rather than going to a nightclub, you can spend a night in with a movie and popcorn. Visit a local coffee shop rather than a bar. The key is to replace old activities with new ones that are just as exciting. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do So Many Addicts Relapse? 

Relapse is common among addicts due to a combination of factors. Perhaps the most prevalent factor is that addictive substances and habits are incredibly powerful. It can take a long time for the brain to rewire itself and begin producing necessary chemicals on its own again. 

Many addicts also lack support systems, such as family or friends, to help them through continuous recovery. Since recovery is not linear, those close to the addict may believe that they do not need assistance at a certain point in time, when they could be in a worse mental state the very next day. 

What If I am Constantly Exposed to Addiction Triggers? 

While one of the most important pieces of advice for those in recovery is to avoid triggers, it is sometimes unavoidable. If you live with others who partake in substance abuse or other harmful habits, such as gambling, you may not be able to move out or physically distance yourself from the behavior. 

Use the coping mechanisms that you learned in addiction treatment or from your therapist to stay calm when exposed to triggers. Talk yourself through the feelings and understand that, while the craving seems powerful, it will eventually go away. 

What Should I Do If I End Up Relapsing? 

Relapsing is incredibly common for addicts; many do not fully recover the first try. Even though relapsing is often a bump on the road to recovery, it can feel devastating. 

It is important to understand that you do not have to spiral when you relapse. After the incident, reach out to a sponsor or another close person in your life. Your previous recovery attempt is still valid, and you should continue with your efforts to stay clean and sober. 

Rebuild Your Life After Addiction Disorder

Battling addiction disorder can be frustrating, but you do not have to go through it alone. With this guide, you can find hope and happiness in recovery and build a lifestyle that you can be proud of. 

Would you like to learn more about addiction and substance abuse recovery? Take a look around our website for further advice and information.