BlackDoctor.org: What are some things to expect during this process?
Dr. Ashe: Relapse is unfortunate yet common. It sometimes may take people several trails prior to successful soberness.
Brown: While relapse is not a requirement of recovery expect it. Relapse happens. It is not personal to the family even though you will feel let down. You might have to face the fact that your loved one is not ready or your loved one is ready but needs more support. Example: If he/she was in outpatient care maybe it is time for all to consider inpatient treatment. During early recovery the person is trying to stay calm and accept life on life term. During advanced recovery they are usually working again, or in school and more sociable with family and/or friends.
BlackDoctor.org: How do you know they’re recovering or recovered?
Dr. Ashe: Acknowledgement of the issue and their short comings is a good indicator that recovery is underway or at least possible. Some signs include:
- Attendance at their meetings.
- Avoidance of people and places that trigger addiction. For instance, they may stop going to bars or spending time with known drug users.
Brown: The following is not all-inclusive nor applies to everyone because some people just stop using and that is where the recovery process ends for them. Not everyone is happy or strives to enjoy this new life of abstinence. To many, “recovered” is a word that is not relevant. The recovery process is an ongoing journey. As we grow and meet new life challenges we encounter another person, incident, challenge and continue to use the tools learned to not use.
For others “recovered” means that there is full confidence that he/she will never use again. Some people relapse when they think like the latter because they become cocky and start to take risk. Ex. visiting old friends, and old places that are not safe.
Some signs of recovery:
- No longer using
- Starts taking interest in family events
- Renewed interest in old activities
- Better health habits
- There will be talk about what the person aspire vs what they think they can’t do
- You can see it in their eyes and how they carry themselves.
- They express a lot gratitude
BlackDoctor.org: Where can we find more information about you?
Dr. Ashe: You can find me at Be Well Medical Group. Book your appointments today. We offer concierge medicine and corporate medical services.
Brown: Visit my new blog at Addiction Treatment News and click like on my Facebook Fan Page.