Remission can be defined as a time frame where physical and mental signs symptoms of an addiction have vanished. The concept of remission has been adapted from the medical field, where it is often associated with the treatment of chronic diseases, such as cancer or diabetes. In addiction treatment, remission refers to a state where you are no longer actively using drugs or alcohol and exhibit improved physical, psychological and social functioning.
Remission in addiction, viewed as a disease affecting mind, body and spirit, signifies a stage where the active symptoms of addiction are managed, though not easily achieved. The American Society of Addiction Medicine highlights the necessity of ongoing recovery activities, including 12-Step meetings, therapy and spiritual practices, for maintaining remission. A life in remission is one of sobriety, marked by significant effort towards a balanced, connected and hopeful existence. The National Institute on Drug Abuse suggests that remission brings improved functionality and better control over cravings. Personal testimonials like one shared through the National Alliance on Mental Illness, reveal that sobriety strengthens self-advocacy and self-awareness, underscoring the importance of pursuing a sober lifestyle for personal growth and well-being.
Remission is typically classified into three categories: full remission, partial remission and early remission.
- Full remission implies a complete absence of addiction symptoms for a sustained period.
- Partial remission indicates a significant reduction in addictive behaviors but some symptoms may still be present.
- Early remission suggests a positive response to treatment with no addictive behaviors observed for at least three months.
The length of remission required to categorise one’s progress may vary based on different sources or organizations within the addiction recovery community. Generally, a continuous period ranging from several months to a year is required to achieve full remission status.
The Brain Disorder
Addiction is frequently recognised as a brain disorder that disrupts the normal communication system of the brain. Drugs interfere with the way neurons send, receive and process information by imitating neurotransmitters but they can never replicate the natural chemicals’ exact functions, leading to distorted messages within the brain’s communication pathways. The National Institute on Drug Abuse highlights how substances not only interrupt normal brain operations but also induce excessive dopamine production, creating a euphoric sensation. This euphoria encourages repeated drug use as the brain seeks to experience these feelings again, leading to a cycle where the brain becomes less capable of generating natural chemicals independently. Over time, this results in physical dependency and, coupled with compulsive drug-seeking behaviour, culminates in addiction.
It is worth mentioning that remission can be facilitated through various treatment approaches, including therapy, counselling, medication-assisted treatment, support groups and holistic interventions.
The concept of addiction remission is adopted from the medical field, where it is often associated with the treatment of chronic diseases. Get help from qualified counsellors.What is Remission? Remission From Addiction
Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and supporting individuals in recovery world wide.
Inpatient Rehab
Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
Outpatient
If you're committed to your sobriety but cannot take a break from your daily duties for an inpatient program. Outpatient rehab treatment might suit you well if you are looking for a less restricted format for addiction treatment or simply need help with mental health.
Therapy
Therapy can be good step towards healing and self-discovery. If you need support without disrupting your routine, therapy offers a flexible solution for anyone wishing to enhance their mental well-being or work through personal issues in a supportive, confidential environment.
Mental Health
Are you having persistent feelings of being swamped, sad or have sudden surges of anger or intense emotional outbursts? These are warning signs of unresolved trauma mental health. A simple assesment by a mental health expert could provide valuable insights into your recovery.
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