Recovering from Alcoholism – what does it entail?

Recovering from Alcoholism – what does it entail?

Alcoholism, according to the disease model of recovery, is a chronic illness that causes trauma on a number of different levels, not only in the life of the alcoholic, but in the lives of everyone with whom they come into contact. Recovery from alcoholism, in many regards, involves a multi-pronged approach. What we know about this form of addiction is that there is no one, simple way of recovery. In fact, the recovering alcoholic will be faced with many choices and important changes that are crucial to whether he/she will recover in the long-term. This includes the kind of people with whom they choose to associate, the places they visit and even the activities in which they engage. Recovery is a lifelong, life-changing process, but we encourage recovering alcoholics to think of their process as a “one day at a time,” experience.

Depending on the level of alcohol in the individual’s system, a detoxification process may be required. It is important that this process is facilitated and monitored by a medical professional who is able to check the client’s vital signs and ensure that the process is as comfortable as possible. The nature and length of this process will depend entirely on the physical and mental state of the individual client. We therefore treat each detox process on a case-by-case basis.

After detox, the client will join the rest of the therapeutic community in group sessions. The goal of treatment at Crossroads Recovery Centres is to help our clients build foundations for long-term abstinence. This involves focusing on making changes in the way recovering alcoholics live their lives, face problems and relate to themselves and the world around them.

For many, recovering from alcoholism may not seem possible, but we believe that one day at a time, one step at a time, it can become a reality. We understand the importance of building a support network that extends beyond the treatment programme, which is why we deem it imperative to introduce recovering alcoholics to the Alcoholics Anonymous 12 step fellowship during their time at the facility. This ensures that they have a long-term plan for recovery and that after treatment, they have the support they need to live free from the clutches of alcoholism.

If you or a loved one is in search of help for addiction in any form, know that help is readily available. Contact us for a free consultation and we’ll support you in your journey.

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
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• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
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• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
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• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
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