Sobriety means different things to different people. Even treatment professionals may differ in their definition of sobriety. In the broadest terms possible, it simply means recovery from alcohol or drug addiction. If you dig a little deeper, however, you will find that sobriety is more than a definition or even a mental/physical state.
What’s the Definition of Sobriety?
For many people, sobriety is a process of transitioning from addiction to recovery. That process may include stages such as detox, rehab, and extended care. Still, within those three stages lie several smaller steps that create a lifelong journey. Regardless of how you view sobriety, the key is to set that as the defining benchmark in breaking the cycle of addiction.
Let’s explore some of the ideas and concepts that are often associated with sobriety to make it more meaningful for you.
“Sobriety Is a State of Mind”
In some ways, this definition of sobriety is based on science as much as it is a motivational tagline. Addiction treatment addresses common mental health issues that are associated with addiction. In addition, treatment specialists guide patients through holistic therapy to provide healing for the mind, body, and soul.
Improving the mind on a clinical level helps produce a mindset that prepares you for long-term sobriety. Embracing wellness strategies such as fitness and nutrition, promote mental health as well as your therapy sessions. So, yes, sobriety is a state of mind.
“Sobriety is a Commitment to Stay Clean”
Your commitment to sobriety begins once you admit that you need help for addiction. If you are willing to go through detox and rehab, then your commitment strengthens with each passing day. Commitment involves action, integrity, and doing whatever it takes to stay sober.
What does this mean, tangibly?
- Take responsibility for your addiction and do something about it
- Participate in therapy and be willing to listen and learn
- Complete detox and rehab
- Attend your support group or 12-step meetings
- Put strategies into place that prevent a relapse
In addition, form a support network that includes friends, family, mentors, your therapist, and your support group. Set yourself up for success through personal strategy and action that fits the needs of your definition of sobriety.
“Sobriety is a Life Makeover”
For some people, the definition of sobriety includes changing your life – not just dealing with the addiction. Think about all of the circumstances that led you into addiction. They could have included depression, bad nutrition, stress, poor family relationships, finances, lack of exercise, or exposing yourself to bad influences. Maybe you frequented the bars a bit too often.
If you are truly going to recover, then you need to take a life inventory and change all the things that led to the addiction. This may be leaving your job, getting new friends, joining the gym, or getting treatment for a mental disorder. Sobriety doesn’t happen until you address all of the underlying factors that led to your addiction.
Start Your New Life Today with Summit Detox
Regardless of your definition of sobriety, what is important is that you take the first step to achieve it. Summit Detox can help you every step of the way. We offer comprehensive detox for all types of addictions. To find out more, call us today at [direct].
