Importance of Accountability in Addiction Recovery
One of the first things a person learns in rehab is the importance of honesty and accountability in recovery. When a person is willing to accept responsibility for their actions they strengthen their resolve to get and stay clean and sober. But, it’s not as easy as it may seem.
Recovering addicts find it difficult to realize that they must stop blaming others for their behavior. Although many people may have played a role in the drug abuse, a person must accept responsibility for their own mistakes and move forward.
How to Practice Honesty and Accountability in Recovery
Practicing honesty and accountability in recovery is a skill you’ll develop over time. In rehab, you learned some tips and skills to help you get started. Now it’s time to put them to good use.
You learned how to…
- Identify warning signals or triggers
- Set boundaries that help you build healthy relationships
- Avoid negative thoughts and emotions
- Commit to a daily or weekly support group
- Outline steps to achieve your goals
Accountability in recovery means you are taking steps to change your thinking patterns, habits, and behaviors. But, you can’t do it alone. It’s easy to return to those old ways of thinking when things get difficult. You’ll need support from others to help you stay on track. You can find support through aftercare programs, support groups, self-help groups, SMART Recovery, 12-step meetings, and more.
The best way to build self-esteem is through being honest which is a form of accountability. When a person is honest with himself/herself, it sets the stage for some positive life changes. With each accomplishment, confidence increases.
Staying Grounded and Motivated After Rehab
One critical element of recovery is staying focused. Establishing a routine and sticking to it is the best way to avoid boredom and the sense of futility that it festers. Choosing an “accountability partner” is a wise move. This partner will check in daily to see how you are progressing in your recovery. Sometimes it’s best to choose a partner who has been through recovery themselves or someone who has professional experience mentoring recovering addicts.
Other tools are available as excellent resources for support. For instance, online forums can help you reach out to others who are dealing with the same issues as you. Also, mobile apps are available to help you track how long you’ve been sober, manage emotions, track triggers, and receive inspiration.
But, in the end, you are your most valuable tool. Other people can only do so much to help you reach your goals. Your personal integrity and dedication are vitally important to your success. As many other addicts have found, being true to yourself is a rewarding experience because you finally feel like you are in control of your life.
Become Who You Want to Be
Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines accountability as “an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility, or to account for one’s actions.”
Truthfulness, or accountability, in recovery, helps someone become the person they want to be by holding true to their values and intentions.
Everyone makes mistakes. What sets some people apart is that they own the mistakes, learn from them, and don’t blame others. Holding yourself accountable takes courage. But, when you summon that courage, you’ll find freedom on the other side.
You can get more information about accountability in recovery by calling our toll-free number today. Also, if you or a loved one needs addiction treatment, we can help you choose the right program for your needs.