Stages of recovery are not always obvious. These include Abstinence, Action, Contemplation, and Preparation. These stages may overlap with each other, but each focuses on an important aspect of recovery. Each one requires time and effort. Abstinence is a necessary part of this stage. Action, on the other hand, involves making a plan and taking action. This is where you start building a support system, while Contemplation is a stage of recovery.

Abstinence

Abstinence as a stage of alcohol recovery is often associated with spirituality, and this can be problematic. Not everyone is comfortable with spirituality. Another criticism of abstinence is its rigidity, which can lead to an early discharge from treatment or meetings. This contradicts the idea that addiction is a disease that responds to a specific regimen, but individualized treatment meets individual needs. Ultimately, abstinence does not guarantee recovery.

Rather, abstinence helps individuals learn to live without the use of alcohol or other substances. By eliminating the use of alcohol and other addictive substances, abstinence helps individuals reduce the risk of relapsing. While abstinence may seem more difficult, the benefits of abstinence are numerous. For example, abstinence is a key component of alcohol and drug rehab.

Action

Alcohol and substance use disorders can negatively impact a person's life in many ways. These problems can include physical and psychological problems, such as ulcers, and significant distress and impairment over a period of twelve months. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to help individuals manage the symptoms of alcohol and substance use disorders. Listed below are some of the most common treatments for alcohol and drug addiction. In addition to these treatments, some individuals may benefit from the following:

First, a primary care physician can help. They can assess the individual's drinking habits and determine if co-occurring disorders are a factor. They can then prescribe medication to aid in quitting drinking and provide referrals for treatment. Next, people may decide to go to a residential treatment program. This usually involves staying at a treatment center for 30 to ninety days. Partial hospitalization is a treatment option for people who have stable living arrangements but need ongoing medical monitoring. Partial hospitalization involves meeting at the treatment facility a few days per week. Intensive outpatient treatment programs are also an option for people who want to work around work or school.

Contemplation

People in the contemplation stage of alcohol recovery have realized that they have a problem but are not ready to change. They may be undecided about a course of action or are simply going through the motions. Either way, they are often unable to fully acknowledge the gravity of their situation. Fortunately, it is not too late to make a change and take steps toward recovery. But first, the person must admit that they have a problem.

The first step in change is acknowledgment of the problem. In the precontemplation stage, the addict will likely be in denial about their addiction and blame external factors such as genetic predispositions and stress. In addition, they will most likely remember this time period as a hopeless one, a period known as rock bottom. Ultimately, these feelings will lead to the next stage in alcohol recovery.

Preparation

When in need of alcohol rehab, preparation is essential. The process begins with a medically assisted detoxification. After receiving medical supervision for withdrawal, patients will undergo behavioral therapy and participate in counseling sessions. Psychotherapeutic care will address trauma and mental health issues. After detox, patients will participate in family sessions and other educational sessions. The treatment is comprehensive. Patients will learn new coping mechanisms and gain insight into their patterns and triggers.

Regardless of the type of treatment that you choose, you will need to prepare yourself mentally and physically for the long term. While treatment will be intense, you may face delays caused by waitlists and other factors. You may have to take time off work and arrange for transportation. However, preparation is vital to make the process as stress-free as possible. You'll need to stay focused, relaxed, informed, and committed to your recovery, and make sure your friends and family know your intentions.

Termination

In some situations, the employer may agree to terminate the employee if they fail to comply with the employer's rules regarding drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Such an agreement, known as a "firm choice," requires the employee to complete treatment for substance abuse before returning to work. It may also be called a "last chance" agreement. Employers should avoid using these agreements to terminate or reduce employees' salaries or promises of raises, and instead look at the employee's performance when he or she returned to work.

Although there is no universal law prohibiting employers from firing employees who go to alcohol rehabilitation, some states protect employees from termination for legitimate reasons. The Family and Medical Leave Act prohibits employers from terminating employees for seeking treatment for addiction. Union contracts and other employer policies also protect employees from termination for taking time off for treatment. In other cases, the employer may fire an employee for good reason, such as the violation of a company policy. If this happens, the employee should be notified immediately.