Finding motivation for addiction recovery can be challenging. Behavioral change is a process that takes time and requires motivation. Grappling with the decision ‘to change or not to change’ alone can lead to spiraling down rabbit holes with no rational resolution. The motivation for addiction recovery doesn’t usually show up on its own. Often, some support is required to initiate and maintain positive behavior changes. Motivational interviewing is a technique designed to provide an impartial outside perspective and be instrumental in reaching the most positive outcome.
If you or someone you love struggles to find motivation for addiction recovery, contact our licensed experts in motivational interviewing and addiction recovery at Fort Behavioral Health. Reach out to our team today by calling 844.332.1807 or completing our online contact form for finding motivation and addressing ambivalence in addiction recovery.
Finding Motivation
Finding motivation for anything can seem overwhelming. This holds especially true when finding motivation for addiction recovery because returning to familiar, addictive behaviors is a common coping mechanism when dealing with overwhelming emotions. However, it is possible to find motivation for addiction recovery. Motivation, like mindfulness, is something that is a practice. The first step towards finding motivation can be as simple as trying something new.
Reaching out to a professional for motivational interviewing can ease the anxiety of embracing change by providing structure and guidance on the first steps towards finding motivation for addiction recovery. Motivational interviewing, unlike interviewing for a job, is focused on helping the client process difficult decisions and helping to evoke positive change. It is a collaborative and autonomy-honoring method that is effective in finding motivation for addiction recovery.
If you or a loved one are struggling to find the motivation for addiction recovery, connecting with a supportive growth-oriented community and talking with a professional are two low-pressure steps to help ease the anxiety of making change. Finding the motivation to change can seem overwhelming, but with one small step at a time, what was once seemingly impossible can become a reality.
Addressing Ambivalence in Addiction Recovery
Ambivalence, or having conflicting thoughts and feelings, is normal. Not only that, it is a crucial step in the addiction recovery process. The presence of ambivalence concerning addiction recovery signals a turning point of recognizing that things are not ideal as they are. Perhaps there are many pros and cons to setting down the path of addiction recovery in earnest. It is essential to recognize and acknowledge the ambivalence as a first step.
Addressing ambivalence in addiction recovery can be as challenging as finding motivation. However, it is important to address it head-on rather than resorting to avoidance and hoping that the conflicting feelings will pass on their own.
Often, there are just as many reasons not to make changes as there are to change. Ambivalence is a normal nervous system response to overwhelming emotions and the prospect of making significant life changes. Start small, and what once was looming will begin to seem more and more manageable.
There are some ways to address ambivalence in addiction recovery if you or a loved one are feeling uninspired to begin or continue the addiction recovery process. Some of these methods include:
- Acknowledge the presence of conflicting thoughts and emotions
- Keep a journal and write without judgment about what conflicts are present within
- Reach out to supportive friends and family
- Get out of your head and into your body with some light exercise
- Talk with a professional about motivational interviewing and addiction recovery
Choose Fort Behavioral Health for Help Finding Motivation for Addiction Recovery
At Fort Behavioral Health, you will find a safe and welcoming environment with a team of licensed professionals ready to support you wherever you are in the process of addiction recovery. From finding the motivation to attaining and maintaining recovery, we offer a supportive, personalized recovery experience for each person in our care. Learn more by calling our team at 844.332.1807 or filling out our online form.
