Dealing with addiction can be very challenging; success stories have shown that recovery is a reality for addicts. The period of recovery is sometimes referred to as rollercoaster ride, because of the presence of great highs and lows.
During this great time of change, your emotion can be a bit tumultuous, especially if you are new to addiction recovery. Every recovering person will experience restlessness, frustrations and many other recovery symptoms which can impact one’s mental state and feelings, but the good news is that recovery rollercoaster will eventually get you through to a better state.
The proven patterns of behavior (Jellinek Curve) exhibited by people suffering from addiction (drug & alcohol), cover the progressive, crucial, chronic, rehabilitation and recovery phases:
Progressive Phase
Occasional relief drinking.
Constant Relief Drinking commences.
Increase in Alcohol tolerance and dependence.
Surreptitious drinking and feeling of guilt.
Crucial Phase
Memory blackout and Inability to discuss problem or stop.
Grandiose and aggressive behavior commence.
Persistent remorse and trying of geographical escapes.
Resolutions fail.
Avoiding families and loosing other interests.
Money troubles and loss of will power.
Tremors and early morning use.
Chronic Phase
Lengthy Intoxication and physical deterioration set in.
Moral Deterioration and indefinable fears follow.
Vague spiritual desires.
Defeat admitted, as possibility of death follows.
Rehabilitation Phase
Honest desire for help.
Learns addiction is a illness.
Healthy thinking begins after meeting former addicts.
Spiritual needs examined and physically overhauled by doctor.
Comes new hope.
Recovery Phase
Fear of the unknown future diminishes.
Self-esteem returns.
Realistic thinking and adjustment to family needs commence.
Rebirth of ideals as family and friends appreciate efforts.
New circle of friend is formed.
Increase of emotional control.
Care of personal appearance.
Group therapy and mutual help continue.
You hit the nail on the head. We deal with the same problem a few years ago, my brother got addicted to drugs and dealing against it was physically, emotionally and financially stressful. But all is good now. We stayed by his side to all the battles he go through.
Thanks for letting others know what you guys went through.