Self-help in addiction treatment and rehab refers to the process where individuals actively participate in their own recovery, often through involvement in mutual support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Originating with AA in the late 1930s, self-help has become a cornerstone of addiction recovery, emphasising community and peer support. In these groups, members share experiences, offer support and guide each other, creating strength and encouragement.
Key terms in the self-help community include “Sponsor,” an experienced group member who supports and guides a newer member; “Higher Power,” a spiritual or greater force providing guidance and strength, interpreted according to personal beliefs; “Twelve Steps,” principles from AA that outline a path to recovery, involving self-reflection, amends and spiritual growth; and “Anonymous,” denoting confidentiality and a non-judgmental environment in these groups.
The self-help principle, gaining momentum with recent trends in self-care and individual responsibility, traces its roots back to the social movements of the 1960s which paved the way for the development of self-help groups. These groups, particularly significant in addiction treatment, offer a non-judgmental, caring and supportive environment. They are community-based and accessible to anyone, including not just those recovering from drug or alcohol addiction but also their families. This paper examines the characteristics, ideologies and beliefs of self-help groups, as well as their advantages and limitations. It also explores how these groups play a role in empowering individuals and complementing professional help in the field of addiction.
Toxic Self Help
Self-help books like Mark Manson’s “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” and Steven R. Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” are immensely popular with millions of copies sold. However, they also face substantial criticism, categorised into three main concerns: bad effects like harmful advice or false hope, placebo effects where any benefit is not due to the advice but rather to the reader’s increased focus and no effect, where advice is seen as common sense or simplistic, often going unused by the reader. This critique, widespread in news, posts and books, suggests a trend where criticizing self-help books is almost as popular as the books themselves.
The key reason self-help books often fail to achieve their intended impact, as suggested by an article in the Journal of Happiness Studies, is the reader’s lack of action upon the advice. The responsibility to apply the book’s advice lies with the reader, who often reads the book but continues with their usual routines. A potential solution is to use lectio divina, a method learned from Benedictine monasteries, involving slow, contemplative reading, allowing sentences to resonate deeply. This technique encourages readers to internalize the text, significantly increasing the likelihood of behavioural change and benefiting from the advice. Additionally, the process of lectio divina itself can be enriching and improve the reader’s well-being making it a valuable approach for engaging with self-help materials.
Self-improvement addiction is the excessive and compulsive pursuit of personal growth, often driven by unrealistic expectations and perfectionism and can have negative effects on mental health and relationships. People with this addiction constantly seek ways to better themselves in areas like health, fitness, career and relationships but never feel satisfied. They often spend considerable time and resources on self-help materials, struggle with self-criticism, fear of failure and may neglect other life aspects for self-improvement. This obsession can lead to burnout, stress and damage personal relationships, as it cultivates isolation, judgment and competitiveness with others. It also hinders living authentically and aligning with one’s true values and desires.
To overcome self-improvement addiction, it’s important to recognise the problem, possibly seek professional help and challenge irrational beliefs about perfection and constant improvement. Setting realistic, value-aligned goals and celebrating progress, however small, can help shift focus from flaws to achievements. Practicing gratitude and self-compassion and balancing self-improvement with self-acceptance, are crucial. Self-acceptance involves embracing strengths and weaknesses and respecting oneself and others without relentless pursuit of change or improvement.
Actual Self Help and Care
Practicing self-care is essential in addiction recovery, helping to regain control of one’s life and prioritise well-being. Self-care involves intentional actions to improve mental, emotional and physical health like recharging your battery. It’s not just about relaxation activities such as bubble baths but includes various acts that reduce anxiety and improve mood. For those recovering from addiction, self-care is a important tool, as it involves shifting focus from substance abuse to personal well-being.
Key aspects of self-care in addiction recovery include self-reflection, journaling, setting boundaries, spending time outdoors and practicing mindfulness. These activities help in staying grounded, understanding oneself better and handling daily life stresses healthily. Setting boundaries is vital to protect sobriety and it can involve physical actions like leaving a risky situation or emotional actions like expressing discomfort. Mindfulness helps in living in the present and coping with reality. Additional self-care tips include engaging in calming activities like reading or aromatherapy, pursuing personal growth activities, participating in productive or physical activities and connecting socially with others in recovery or through spiritual or religious practices.
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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