In an effort to help millions of people recover from alcohol and drug addiction, President Donald Trump has proclaimed September 2017, as the National Alcohol and Drug Recovery Month. The official proclamation, published on the White House website, sees the president offering his support to the Americans struggling with addiction and their families. “This month, we emphasize to all those suffering that recovery is possible. My Administration is taking a proactive approach to support State and local communities as they work on the front lines to prevent substance use and addiction and to promote recovery,” says the proclamation.

For the past 27 years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has been observing September as the National Recovery Month to raise awareness about addiction and to acknowledge the people who have successfully recovered from addiction. Trump’s proclamation is being seen as an attempt to bring both alcohol and drug use on the same platform.

While the government shows its commitment to fight problems related to alcohol and drug abuse, people with addiction can become their own friends to help themselves recover from the dangerous problem. Here are five effective self-help techniques to help people battling any kind of addiction lead a sober life:

1. Showing urge to quit: Patient’s willingness to quit is the key for any successful addiction treatment outcome. People with addiction should acknowledge the benefits of quitting and a successful alcohol and drug recovery. Thinking of a better life can encourage people battling addiction to seek treatment for their problem.
2. Seeking timely medical assistance: People with alcoholism can do themselves a favor by seeking timely treatment to get rid of addiction. Many studies have found a combination of medication and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as the most effective treatment strategy to get over addiction.
3. Adhering to treatment program: No treatment will work until the patient follows the prescription guidelines, including taking the medicine on time and in the correct dose. People tend to stop medication abruptly after they start to feel better while most medications require a gradual step-down for safe discontinuation. Following the treatment regimen strictly may appear taxing in the beginning, but it ensures the patient enjoys a timely recovery.
4. Staying real: In most of the mental health problems, a complete cure may be a difficult thing to achieve. Therefore, patients should set realistic expectations with the treatment. They need to understand what “recovery” means. Staying in treatment and sticking to a healthy lifestyle are the essentials to enjoy a normal life.
5. Getting enough sleep: Body requires rest to heal. A minimum of 6 to 8 hours of night’s sleep is mandatory for all, especially for those battling any physical or mental health problem. People having trouble falling asleep can do some sensible things, which include shutting down overstimulating things at least an hour before bedtime, turning off the TV and not answering or making calls.

Addiction to harmful drugs can be treated with timely medical intervention. If you or your loved one is battling alcohol or drug addiction, meet an expert immediately for an early and sustainable recovery.

Hooked Sober is a source of information on drugs, alcohol, eating disorders and mental disorders. Please send your questions, concerns or comments to [email protected] or speak to a representative at 866-838-4087.

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