Did you know that each year nearly twenty million Americans struggle with a substance abuse disorder? The good news is that many of these individuals will seek help for their condition.

The bad news is that addiction is a slippery slope. That means one small misstep can cause someone to relapse.

That’s why it’s important to be aware of some of the common addiction recovery mistakes that individuals often make. That way, you have the best chance possible of staying clean and in optimal health. Let’s get started!

Thinking You Can Do It Alone

Many people (usually men) are often afraid to ask for help when they’re struggling with addiction. This is due to the misconception that asking for help somehow makes you weak. This isn’t true.

The reality is that it takes a huge amount of strength to be vulnerable around your loved ones like this. You should also make sure that you go to rehab where you’re getting treatment and has good reviews.

That way, you can start treatment today knowing that you have a team of professionals that have your back.

Not Treating Mental Health Issues

Addiction often accompanies other mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. In these cases, it’s not helpful to just treat the addiction.

You also need to treat the underlying source of it, which more often than not is mental illness. Once you get to the root of the problem you’ll have a much better chance of staying clean in the future.

But, if you only treat addiction, then one bad mental health day can quickly lead to a relapse.

Thinking You’re Cured After Recovery

There’s a major misconception that after someone gets the treatment they’re “cured” addiction. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The reality is that treatment is only the first step of the process.

While getting through the detox process is no small feat, there’s still a lot more hard work to accomplish. So, make sure that you don’t get complacent after you’re released from the facility.

Jumping Into a New Relationship Too Soon

Once people get out of recovery, they often look for activities they can do sober. And dating falls under this category. However, it’s important to wait at least a year into recovery before you start dating.

Otherwise, the thrill and stresses that come with a new relationship can distract you from the recovery process.

Appreciate Learning About Addiction Recovery Mistakes? Keep Reading

We hope this article helped you learn some of the common addiction recovery mistakes that people make. The most important thing is to take it slow. There’s no need to rush your recovery or entry back into daily life.

Doing so will only cause you to make mistakes. So, take it one day at a time and work from there. Did you appreciate this educational content? Keep exploring our website to find more guides just like it.