Taking responsibility is a hard thing to do. It’s even harder when you’re struggling with a drug or alcohol problem. Pointing fingers is easier and directs attention away from you. While this may make you feel better, for the time being, it doesn’t offer any benefits in the long run. In fact, it can damage relationships with others and delay recovery.

As hard as it may be, taking responsibility is one of the best things you can do for yourself and others around you. Let’s discuss the importance of taking personal responsibility in addiction recovery and tips for doing so.

Why Responsibility Matters

Addiction has many symptoms, and denial is one of them. Addicts deny their actions through many behaviors, and one of them is placing blame on others. It’s common for addicts to blame their drug and alcohol use on factors such as stress, anxiety, friends, etc. Rather than accepting responsibility, they believe their actions are due to someone or something

The problem with pointing fingers is that addicts aren’t able to move forward in their recoveries. They basically get stuck. Recovery can only take place when an addict owns up to their mistakes and realizes what they need to do to make a difference.

Tips for Taking Responsibility

Once you accept responsibility for the things you have done wrong, you can progress through the recovery process. It might not feel good to know there are things you have done and said that have hurt others, but it is one of the most valuable steps in the healing process. In fact, it’s a great lesson for life in general!

To take responsibility, you must:

• Admit that you have a problem. If you don’t acknowledge your problem, a treatment program likely won’t help. The recovery process starts with admitting the addiction.

• Put in the effort. Recovery does not fall into one’s life. It requires a great deal of effort that you must be willing to put in. You won’t feel motivated to contribute to this effort if you don’t think you have a problem.

• Work on your self-esteem. It’s common for addicts to suffer from low self-esteem. Work on this in counseling by setting small goals and achieving them. This will help build up your self-esteem so you can take more control of your life.

• Consider others. Avoid too much unstructured time, as this can lead to boredom. Instead, volunteer your time. Helping others helps develop accountability and responsibility, as other people are counting on you.

Are you ready to start your recovery? Call The River Source to speak with one of our admissions counselors. We have various programs to fit your needs and budget.