Recovery Information

If a person is struggling with an addiction, the first step in the path to recovery is to enter an inpatient detox program. There, a patient ends his or her body’s physical addiction to a substance. This process can last for a few days, or a few weeks. Only after a person has detoxed can the emotional aspects of recovery begin. 
 
Following detox, it is a good idea for the recovering addict to establish residency at a half-way house.  During these residential treatment programs, clients learn about the disease of addiction, what triggers are and how to cope with them. At the same time, half-way houses will help clients reintegrate into society, through assistance with job searches and training. For a list of half-way houses, call 1-800-ALCOHOL.

After living for a period of time at a half-way house and making significant recovery progress, recovering addicts should transition to independent living. This may mean securing your own apartment, or house, or living with friends or family in a substance-free environment. At this point, the recovering addict should be a productive member of society, working steadily toward new goals and a sense of self.

Every person is different, and no two paths to recovery are identical. However, we believe that the person who follows these suggestions has a greater chance at succeeding in recovery than the person who tries to tackle an addiction alone.

We at the American Institute of Addiction wish you luck on your journey.