Just like every person in recovery has a unique story about their path to addiction, everyone who makes a decision to enter recovery has a different idea of what recovery will be like.

Recovery is different for everyone, and yet there are also experiences and behaviors that those in recovery have in common. For example, most people become acutely aware of their fears, anxieties, and frustrations once they go through detox. Drug use masks emotions, so when the drugs or alcohol are removed from the body, suppressed emotions can visit the person in full force.

Moodiness, anger and anxiety commonly surface in early recovery.

Extreme sensitivity to situations and people is also common. A chemically altered person is somewhat oblivious to their surroundings and/or they react in an asocial way. To the newly sober person, facing the world without the protective chemical fog can feel threatening. That’s one reason the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous is so useful to recovering people. The newly recovering person is surrounded by people who understand their fragile position and can offer specific advice and support. This is invaluable in early recovery.

Most people in recovery also experience cravings for the addictive substance. It takes time for the chemical to leave the body and the desire to use to subside. Also, the stresses of life can seem overwhelming without the possibility of escape, which further triggers the desire to use.

On the positive side, if the recovering person has the support of a fellowship like Alcoholics Anonymous or is in treatment with support from professionals, they can face these challenges with more confidence.

So what can you expect in recovery from addiction? Hard work, some rough bumps, and ultimately a new, productive, satisfying life.

If you or someone you love needs help overcoming addiction, please contact us anytime at (337) 379.7700.

References
Drugs: Shatter the Myths. (2013, July). Retrieved November, 2016.

Kranzler, H. R., M.D., & Li, T., M.D. (2008). What is Addiction? Alcohol, Research and Health, 31(2).

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