Can Recovering Drug Addicts Drink?

About Alcohol

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, meaning that consumption of alcohol inhibits overall brain activity. Once a person’s brain adapts to frequent drinking, they will experience withdrawal symptoms. There are several other factors that contribute to the potential of a chemical addiction including but not limited to environment, social, and genetic factors. Alcohol is especially dangerous because it is a socially acceptable drug, which is often abused with little to no opposition in social settings. Considered a social lubricant, alcohol is available at most restaurants, bars, and at the local grocery store. The cause of aggression and severe, debilitating depression, people use alcohol to feel pleasure and escape the stress of life. Drinking alcohol after drug rehab may sound like a good idea – especially if you’re feeling sad or bored, however, it is an addictive substance. Can recovering drug addicts drink? If you are a drug addict or in recovery, then absolutely not.

About Drug Recovery

A recovering drug addicts behavior, is at times passive-aggressive. It is difficult for them to express feelings – let alone openly express them. They may express anger in hidden ways. To an extent, they may be classified as having a personality disorder depending upon how passive-aggressive they are behaving. Those who resort to this type of behavior are using a flawed coping strategy. Recovery is about more than just sobriety – it is also about emotional sobriety. This requires that the individual attend a 12-step meeting and/or seek therapy to deal with the underlying issues

Addicts are masters of deception and manipulation while they are using and sometimes it is a hard habit to break. A recovering addict’s behavior is especially important to monitor because it may be a signal to loved ones that the addict is on the road to relapse. Drinking alcohol after rehab is a dangerous idea. Alcohol will only deter the recovery process by clouding the mind and alter healthy thinking. Can recovering addicts drink? I do not think it is a wise choice.

Life After Rehabilitation

Not only does addiction affect the addict – it affects the family and loved ones, as well. Understanding the recovering drug addict’s behavior is key to helping them on their journey of sobriety. Can recovering addicts drink? Just because you (or a loved one) was addicted to substance other than alcohol does not bar them from relapsing because of it. Alcohol alters your way of thinking so it is not difficult to consume an alcoholic beverage or two and think it is ok to try some other substances again. It can be challenging to live with a recovering addict, notwithstanding, you can educate yourself and make it easier.

Get Educated

It is vital for the family of a recovering alcoholic to be active in their sobriety. Family therapists provide a safe forum for open discussion. The therapist is trained and can facilitate healthy communication skills without projecting blame. Many treatment centers offer family education to help you understand addiction and the recovery process.

To ensure the addict is not tempted or triggered, rid your home of all substances and alcohol. This lifestyle change is vital in an addict’s sobriety. Can recovering drug addicts drink? If you are still unsure please contact the professionals at White Sands Fort Meyers today for more information.

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If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.