How did you get from addiction to recovery? The answer is, by bravely making changes that have enabled you to grow in ways you once would not have thought possible. In reaching recovery, you have triumphed. You have made a better life for yourself. This you can be proud of.
The stages involved in moving from addiction to recovery are shown. Click on each stage to learn more about how you reached recovery and why you must continue to grow to protect it.
Beginning at Start, click on the stages to find out about how you have changed.
I’m alright?!?
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You consider yourself to be ok and are unaware that you are building an unhealthy relationship with drink or drugs. Whilst you start to catch glimpses of the negativity surrounding substance use, you are not ready to admit there is a growing problem.Â
Need to rethink…
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Consequences of addiction build along with dissatisfaction with life.  Negative situations take their toll, and problems become weightier. You start to think about the size of your problems, resetting what you consider acceptable, as they reach new heights.
This is bad!
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You have reached a critical point as your situation has become unbearable. You feel desperate and realise change is needed to stop further misery. It is at this stage that help is sought. Â Sadly 80% of addicts never get to this stage. Â Â
Do or die
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Effort is required to establish healthier ways of thinking and behaving.  Over time, the effort required recedes. It is offset by the benefits of living in recovery and having improved mental and physical wellbeing. Â
Give it your best
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The end stage for successful recovery. To protect your recovery, you live an authentic life where self-awareness is key. You evaluate your actions to ensure good conduct. This keeps complacency at bay, promotes gratitude and positive thinking, which safeguard recovery.
Danger zone
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If your recovery lifestyle is not upheld the danger zone is entered. You feel less inclined to be attentive to your recovery and old behaviours may resurface. The risk of relapse increases. All is not lost though, the knowledge and experience gained previously can move you out of the danger zone if you choose to use them.Â