If you have decided to quit drugs or alcohol, congratulations! You’ve already made a big step. It means you are heading in the right direction. But now, you might ask: Can I quit substance use without entering a rehab center? The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including the duration and regularity of your use, as well as your physical and mental health conditions. Because substance use and mental health issues are often co-occurring, quitting the former can be difficult without addressing the latter. Many residential treatment centers offer a full range of services that provide well-rounded care and support for your recovery, so seeking professional help is always the best option. 

What Are the Risks of Self-Initiated Treatment?

Quitting substance use involves first ridding your body of drugs or alcohol. If you have been using these substances for some time, quitting is not easy to achieve on your own. Most people experience withdrawal symptoms that make them unable to function normally. Some of these reactions might be so intense that they can be life-threatening. Detoxing certain drugs, such as benzodiazepines and opiates, is best when monitored by medical professionals. Additionally, getting rid of substances might be easy for a time, but changing your behavior and improving your overall health cannot be achieved by simply removing drugs and alcohol.

Even if you are able to quit and overcome withdrawal symptoms at home, you might still face cravings and triggers without having the proper tools to know how to deal with them. Quitting on your own may not come with much accountability. If you relapse, it can drive your addictive tendencies deeper, making quitting even more difficult. Because addiction is a chronic disease that changes your body and mind, a more effective treatment plan involves a combination of medication, therapies, and counseling.

Quitting substance use on your own lacks a sustainable motivation system. On the journey of recovery, motivation is key. Even if you have a strong support system from family and friends, they may not be experienced enough to know what to do when you have withdrawal symptoms and face triggers or relapse. These might be further disappointments to them and can damage your relationships, which in turn brings stress and cravings your way. It is best to work with health professionals who can help both you and your loved ones understand the steps to take toward sustainable recovery.

What Are the Benefits of Residential Treatment?

Suppose you have tried and failed many times to detox on your own. There are a few signs that indicate you definitely need professional help and should seriously consider inpatient treatment. First, substance use has become the main focus of your daily life, and you have not been able to quit on your own. Second, you develop persistent mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, that won’t go away even after you stop using. Third, you are tempted to use excessive amounts of drugs or alcohol for stimulation. Lastly, you do not feel like yourself because of worsening behavioral issues, such as compulsion and aggression. If you feel you fit any of these categories, a residential treatment center is probably the best option for your recovery.

Before you commit to it, do some research about what to expect at a residential treatment center. Most inpatient facilities are designed to provide a controlled, immersive, and positive environment. People who enter these treatment centers are expected to learn how to establish and maintain a sober and healthy lifestyle. These homes generally have routines and structures in place to facilitate openness, relaxation, trust, and a sense of community belonging. 

Another major benefit of seeking professional treatment with inpatient programs is that there are experienced staff and therapists who use evidence-based, tested treatment methods that address the whole person, including your body, mind, and behaviors. They can assess all areas of your health. 

Are There Alternative Plans?

People whose addiction has not developed into a lifestyle can consider other recovery options, such as sobriety support groups like a 12-step program. These programs seek to create a welcoming and safe space for people to tell their stories, including successes and failures and may pair you with a sponsor who has been through recovery. This generates more accountability, which is key to long-term recovery success.

You might also consider some treatment centers’ outpatient therapy and counseling sessions. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you identify the underlying issues that contribute to substance use. Experienced counselors can answer questions and advise on any mental health issues. In sum, these trained health professionals can give you insight into the nature of your addiction as well as tools for achieving and maintaining sobriety. The more you know about yourself and your addictive tendencies, the easier it will be to overcome addiction.

Are you considering quitting substance use on your own? Do you know the risks associated with home rehab? People who need to detox are strongly advised to be monitored by health professionals to avoid life-threatening dangers. If you want to achieve sustainable recovery, a treatment center like Laguna Shores Recovery can be the best choice. We integrate evidence-based treatment plans that address the whole person, and you will receive tailor-made treatments. Laguna Shores Recovery offers treatment plans such as detox, medication, 12-step groups, and relationship skills coaching. Our emphasis on co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders addresses the underlying issues that may contribute to addiction. Extensive research proves this approach effective for long-term recovery. We believe in holistic recovery, and we are here to listen, coach, and walk alongside you. Schedule an appointment today at Laguna Shores Recovery. Call us at 954-688-5806, and we would be happy to walk alongside you.