Alcoholism and the Pathway to Recovery

Just like other forms of addiction, alcoholism poses a great threat to the total well being of a man. What is truly disappointing is the fact that the media, both the visual and the written types have regarded drinking as a normal behavior among socially active individuals in the modern world.

Designing a roadmap for cure is an uphill climb; it needs a constant awareness of the obstacles along the way. Some paths maybe long and winding, and there is a chance that the journey will offer room for adjustments. Here are some guideposts that an alcoholic traveler should bear in mind:

Guidepost # 1: Admit that you have a problem.

Make sure that you have your defense mechanism on hold. Do not justify your actions to make it appear that you are in complete control of yourself. Most alcoholics don’t recognize themselves as alcoholics; they call themselves social drinkers. The question is: How many social functions do you attend to and what is your drinking rate? Can you stop drinking alcohol anytime you want to? Are you using alcohol because you want to feel good? The first step to recovery is to recognize that you have a problem, then move forward and leave the denial stage.

Guidepost # 2: Seek help.

Alcoholism is not a simple problem on social and mental behavior; it is also considered a medical disease. And since it is a form of illness, an alcoholic needs professional help. After admitting that you have a problem, it now time for you to accept intervention. This is where your family members and good friends step in. You may all sit down and discuss the issue and research on the kind of help that you will need. There are inpatient and outpatient programs that you can try. Inpatient programs are offered by hospitals and alcohol rehabilitation centers. These institutions have well trained staff and they are equipped with medical needs for your safe road to recovery. On the other hand, there are also outpatient programs offered by community leaders and workers which may focus on the spiritual aspect of recovery. They may provide counseling meetings and group activities that will support you in your quest for cure.

Guidepost # 3: Strengthen your support system.

The best way to sustain your efforts in fighting alcoholism is to ask the constant support of family members and friends. Expect withdrawal symptoms along the way and this is where your family members enter the picture. Their love and understanding will pull you through the tough times. The most difficult situation that you may experience is when you suffer from bouts of depression. Being a medical condition, your body may not be ready to give up easily and different withdrawal symptoms may come up that may end up with depression. Your loved ones will be more than willing to help you at all costs.

Guidepost # 4. Build up your self esteem.

Believe that you are worthy of the love, support and guidance of the people around you. Recite a personal mantra ever time you wake up and tell yourself that you are a unique creation of God and you are now on the road to develop yourself and eventually, you will become what you picture yourself to be. Remember the song “, The Greatest Love of All”? Learning to love your self is the greatest love of all. You cannot give what you don’t have. And to love yourself means exerting all your efforts towards bringing out the best in you.

Guidepost # 5. Turn to Nature

Turn to nature. Technology has gone a long way in improving the lives of people in the modern world. Unfortunately, the rise of the so called cyber technology has turned millions of people into dependency. Moreover, the presence of stress in a busy world is commonplace and more and more people are afflicted with different forms of addiction just to take a respite from the humdrum. The best way to relax and relieve tension is to enjoy the bounties of nature. It may be a simple moon watch or a serene bliss if solitude in a forest park.

You don’t even have to go far because nature has a way to reach out and touch your heart. And perhaps one of the best creatures that nature has to offer is the gift of a pet. You may choose a dog or a cat, depending on your personality. Between taking an alcoholic drink and taking a walk with your dog, I guess you will choose the latter. Pets provide an unexplainable sense of responsibility and a sense of belongingness. The joys of having an animal buddy are limitless and the soothing effect that they draw in the lives of alcoholics is remarkable.

The pathway to recovery is indeed a journey and it is up to you to make a choice. You are given the power of free will and every step that you make is a part of the blueprint of your future. There are many help available and there are many forms of resources to utilize if you really want to win over your addiction. The ball is now on your hands.