This article explains what this first step – or, rather, what these first steps are. It is hard to pinpoint exactly what would be considered the first step, but there are a number of things that one might consider to be a preliminary step in the fight against addiction.
Recognizing and accepting the problem
Most recovery professionals and recovering drug users often agree that the first step is recognizing the fact that you have an addiction problem. Most agree that this is also the most difficult step and that once you have accepted this step, the path to recovery becomes much more clear since you’re aware of what you need to work on.
However, some might argue that this isn’t really a step at all. Recognizing and accepting a drug problem isn’t something that you really do by choice. If you’re not ready to acknowledge the problem, then it doesn’t matter how much people shout at you, condemn you, or try to help you – they’ll all be out of line.
It is usually only after a drug user does enough damage to themselves or to others that they are forced to recognize the impact of their substance abuse. This is one of the reasons why this first ‘step’ is considered so difficult: it involves the user taking full responsibility for their actions and the influence that they have had on themselves and other people.
The first step of drug rehab in San Diego
Once you have acknowledged that you have a problem, you need to actually make a move. The first step is, essentially, committing yourself to one of the San Diego drug treatment centers. There are several things involved in this.
- Contacting a treatment center. The first priority should be getting a hold of a treatment facility that’s within traveling distance. Find out if they are able to treat your addiction and confirm prices and availability.
- Do your intake. The intake session may be done over the phone or in-person. Either way the process of intake is designed to help match you with the right type of therapist and figure out the most effective treatment plan for you.
Once these first steps are completed, you’re ready to start your treatment program!
Medical Detox San Diego
Prior to receiving treatment, many patients must complete a program in a medical detox center San Diego. Whether or not this is required depends upon the type of drug you’re addicted to and the intensity of your addiction. If you’re addicted to alcohol or another substance that can cause fatal withdrawal symptoms, you’ll probably be asked to attend a detox.
Conclusion
The first step of rehab is accepting that you have a problem. After that, you need to contact a rehab center and undergo your intake process so that you can get matched with a therapist and begin your program.
