The Anatomy of Addiction
An in-depth look at addiction, relapse and recovery
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“Although substance use disorder is a detrimental disease that negatively affects millions of Canadians each year, recovery is possible. Varying factors, however, may impact the likelihood of recovery after the affected individual completes treatment. Understanding the related factors associated with post-treatment outcomes would allow substance use disorder professionals to foster positive outcomes, and if appropriate, provide additional support for individuals in need.”
- Journal of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
Timeline of addiction
Start of Addiction
Addiction can result in a multitude of things, whether it's experimenting, self-medicating or pressure from other people. Often it can stem from the environment in which someone grew up in.
Getting Help
Getting help is the turning point in the lives of people struggling with addiction. Treatment facilities, addiction centres, groups, therapy or counselling, are all options people use to start their recovery process.
Relapse
It is more usual than not that a recovering addict will slip and fall into a relapse of their addiction. This is not to say anything about that person's character, rather addiction is a long process and it is difficult. Normally people will relapse more than once, and it takes time to stay in recovery for good.
Downfall
Addiction is an unsustainable habit, regardless of the substance of choice. Eventually there will be a point where the addict hits their lowest point. This can look like many things, including loss of job, losing family and friends, overdose or losing your home.
Recovery
The process of recovery is long and never really ends. It is a life long journey that someone who has battled addiction will live with for their entire lives. This can include following the 5 rules of recovery, and similar ideas that support a healthy and stable mindset.
The Ongoing Journey
Addiction never goes away, and recovery will always be an ongoing struggle. But, with the right resources, many people stay in a happy and healthy state for the rest of their lives.
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Matt's Story
How a recreational habit became a lifelong struggle
Julie's Story
Learning to beat the disease that has plagued a family for generations
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Liz's Story
Being a woman in recovery
Greg's Story
Punishment versus rehabilitation
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