Primary Rehab vs Secondary Addiction Treatment
Treatment for addiction is not a one-stop shop and the initial or primary stage of it differs quite considerably from the treatment needed in order to subsequently maintain a sober lifestyle, this latter phase is called secondary addiction treatment but it is by no means secondary in importance. In this blog, we will delve into the critical role of both primary and secondary addiction treatment in achieving lasting recovery. We will explore the difference between these two stages and highlight the importance of a comprehensive and individualized approach to optimizing outcomes on the journey to sobriety.
Taking The First Step: Understanding the Importance and Purpose of Primary Rehabilitation in Addiction Treatment
Of course the initial or primary rehabilitation is immensely important; that first step of seeking help and recognising that there is a problem is a huge leap, and the inaugural changes can be profound.
The aim of primary rehab is to detoxify an individual from whatever their addiction was, be it alcohol or drug use, and looks to stabilize their wellbeing to a point where they are able to be in a suitable place for recovery, both physically and mentally.
This stage of primary rehab is what most people think of when they consider addiction treatment, the sobering up and getting ‘clean’. This, however, is just the beginning.
Building a Foundation for Lasting Sobriety: Understanding the Importance and Components of Secondary Addiction Treatment in Recovery
The next stage on the road to a lasting recovery is secondary addiction treatment. This is incredibly important and is fundamental to a durable and pervasive sobriety. It’s akin to training for a marathon after you’ve got yourself fit and healthy, and it’s an ongoing process. Secondary rehab treatment comes in many forms which all jigsaw together to build a strong framework of support for those going through it. Some of the therapies included in this secondary stage of recovery treatment include behavioral therapy, group therapy, and life skills training.
Understanding The Difference Between Primary Rehab Treatment and Secondary Treatment
Primary treatment is often done away from the environments which trigger the addictive behaviors, however, secondary treatment deals very much with enabling an individual with behavioral tools and arming them with new strategies and procedures to allow them to cope with ‘normal’ day to day life. This is done through one to one sessions with therapists, group sessions, and workshops which can cover a broad spectrum of subjects such as anger and stress management, nutrition and exercise, financial management, and relapse prevention.
Primary treatment is focussed very much on immediacy, on the present. It concentrates on recovery in the here and now, and can be an intense day by day, or even hour by hour, minute to minute progression. Secondary addiction treatment however, is a long game. It looks to build a safety net of structured coping mechanisms and inner resources which an individual can draw upon and use as an ongoing means for a lasting sobriety.
There is a reason the term recovering from addiction is used and not the phrase recovered from addiction. Recovery is a lifelong process as there is always the danger of a relapse. This is why the secondary treatment is so fundamentally important as the lessons learned during this stage are what will be relied upon when things get tough. Life skills and personal management techniques learnt during the secondary stage may be called upon to avert this danger, and can be built upon and reinforced at any stage.
A Lifelong Journey: Maintaining Sobriety and Preventing Relapse
Overcoming addiction cannot be achieved with only either the primary or secondary stages of treatment, both are essential aspects of the recovery process yet it is important to recognise how they differ, and why each is important. Like all long journeys, distance cannot be achieved without each and every step. The first step may well seem like the hardest, however, it is very easy to get road weary and complacent, and this is why the secondary treatment is so important.
Building self-reliance, confidence and self control through activities such as volunteering and peer mentoring, and ensuring a network of support is all part and parcel of the process.
Wherever you are on the road to recovery, there may be times when you feel unsure of yourself or uncertain about what to do or where to go. If this is the case right now, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Flow Recovery Retreat. We know exactly what you’re going through as we’ve been there too. You can contact us via email, WhatsApp, messenger or just give us a call. Please feel assured that you’re not alone, we’re here to help.