When considering taking an abstinence-based treatment approach to recovery from addiction, people are often beset with anxiety and a number of questions may swirl around their minds. Should I stop using drugs or alcohol completely? Is complete abstinence the only path to recovery? What alternatives exist?
It is entirely understandable. Giving up and letting go is one of the hardest things for human beings to do, let alone those struggling with substance use disorder. If you have had a psycho-physiologically dependent attachment to a substance and behaviour for some time, in spite of the harm it is doing to you and others close to you, the prospect of giving it up may fill you with fear; dread even.
Abstinence treatment is founded on the principle that for those with substance use disorder, complete cessation of drug use or alcohol consumption is the most effective path to recovery. This approach recognizes that continuing substance use often leads to negative consequences and perpetuates the cycle of addiction.
Many traditional treatment programs, including 12-step programs like alcoholics anonymous, emphasize abstinence as the foundation of lasting recovery. The abstinence approach aims to help individuals stop using drugs or alcohol entirely rather than attempting to moderate their use.
In contrast, harm reduction treatment focuses on minimizing the negative consequences associated with substance use, whether or not the person stops using completely. Harm reduction strategies include needle exchange programs, supervised injection sites, and education about safer drug use practices.
The harm reduction approach aims to reduce the risk of overdose, disease transmission, and other public health concerns while meeting people "where they are" in their relationship with substances. While some critics argue that harm reduction methods don't address the underlying addiction, proponents emphasize that these approaches save lives and can serve as a bridge to more intensive treatment.
It is fear of the unknown that makes abstinence challenging. It is fear of what will fill the space currently occupied by addiction-related activity in all its dimensions. It is fear about identity. It is fear about how you will cope despite the fact that there is abundant evidence that you are not presently coping, which may indeed be the thing that has led you to seek help from a place like Clinic Les Alpes in the first place.
Very often people would like to reserve to themselves the possibility of using the substance or engaging in the behaviour at some time in the future. It is a kind of emotional insurance policy; something to hold onto, a comfort blanket of a thought.
So we hear anxiety-fuelled questions like, "Are you telling me I can never/will never be able to drink, use, etc. again?"
The first thing to say is we are not telling anyone not to do this or that when they leave our care. You will always have a choice to exercise. Our aim is that the choices you make should be thoroughly informed by a hugely improved understanding of addiction and recovery.
We are asking you to look at the effects and consequences of what you have been doing up to now and see what conclusions are to be drawn from them to help keep yourself safe and develop a fulfilling future.
Our treatment approach aims for you to be able to recognize how addiction seeks to undermine recovery at every turn. This can often be seen in thoughts that emerge, seemingly innocent in character but which hold a malign intent. Addiction would much rather you wasted your precious time on such questions than get on with saving your life.
While our primary focus is on abstinence-based treatment, we recognize that recovery is highly individualized. Our treatment programs incorporate elements that might be considered harm reduction strategies, such as:
This integrated approach recognizes that the journey between active addiction and complete abstinence isn't always linear. Our treatment may include both abstinence goals and strategies to reduce harm along the way.
The question of whether you can ever engage in substance use again needs to be looked at in a different light. With the right kind of help, you can be supported to come to an understanding as to how certain approaches to recovery may not serve you well.
We may therefore invite you to shift your focus away from "not doing" and onto the creative and positive endeavour that is the building of a well-founded recovery for yourself.
We might suggest that you let go of the concern as to whether you can ever engage in a particular behaviour again in the future and each day while you are with us commit to abstinence "just for today." See what it is like and talk to others about this. You can then experience the benefits for yourself as the days accumulate almost without being noticed.
This approach aligns with many 12-step program philosophies that emphasize taking recovery one day at a time. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by the idea of never using substances again, focusing on maintaining abstinence today makes the process more manageable.
As recovery takes on a momentum of its own, many people find the question cited above no longer has any relevance and see wrestling with it a distraction to the purpose of recovery.
It comes as a great relief to give up the struggle of trying to find a way to hold onto something that is destroying them. They gain a sense of freedom.
Our intensive treatment program provides:
Whether abstinence-based treatment or a harm reduction approach works better depends on many factors, including:
At Clinic Les Alpes, we believe that for many struggling with addiction, complete abstinence offers the clearest path to recovery and healing. However, we approach each person as an individual, creating customized treatment programs that address their unique circumstances and needs.
Abstinence is particularly important for those who have:
For these individuals, continuing to use drugs or alcohol in any amount often perpetuates the cycle of addiction and prevents true healing.
If you're struggling with substance use disorder, know that recovery is possible. Our approach at Clinic Les Alpes combines evidence-based abstinence treatment with compassionate care that addresses all aspects of your wellbeing.
We understand the fear and uncertainty that comes with contemplating an abstinence-based treatment program. Our experienced team will support you through every step of your recovery journey, helping you discover the freedom and fulfillment that comes with liberation from addiction.
Contact us today to learn more about our approach and how we can help you or your loved one find lasting recovery through abstinence-focused treatment.
