Stages of Recovery

Question 1

Stages of Drug Recovery

Answer 1

• Withdrawal 0-15 days
• Honeymoon 16-45 days
• The Wall 46-120 days
• Adjustment 121-180 days
• Resolution 181+ days
• 1 year = ‘stage after resolution’ and beyond

[Know aspects of each stage, so you could describe/identify it based on given information].

Question 2

Stages of Drug Recovery: Withdrawal

Answer 2

Withdrawal (0-15 days)

• Most of physical signs clear after 3-7 days
• Affective feelings persist through 15 days
• Education and direction required
• Cravings
• Short-term memory disturbance, troubled relationships

Question 3

Stages of Drug Recovery: Honeymoon

Answer 3

Honeymoon (15-45 days)

• Opposite of the withdrawal stage
• Patient now feels energized, confident, optimistic
• Cravings reduced, mood improves
• Patient unwittingly strays: Behaviour unstructured & inconsistent, possibly manic
• Highest risk for drug use (but not full relapse)

Question 4

Stages of Drug Recovery: The Wall

Answer 4

The Wall (45-120 days)

• Largest % of relapse occurs; relapse rehearsal and euphoric recall may occur
• Interper/personal issues emotionally experienced; bored, lack energy, no sex interest, stop exercising/dieting
• Patient feels discouraged

➡ Supportive elements of recovery program must be strong

➡ group counselling is especially helpful

Question 5

Stages of Drug Recovery: Adjustment

Answer 5

Adjustment (120-180 days)

• New hope/energy for recovery
• Acceptance of life-long fight
• Affirmation of ability for sobriety
• Return to normal behaviour/activity; still lonely & bored
• Relationship problems may emerge

Question 6

Stages of Drug Recovery: Resolution

Answer 6

Resolution (181+ days)

• Shift from learning new skills to monitoring/maintenance; develop new interests
• Possible behavioural addictions begin
• Possibly need individual therapy/relationship work
• May question need for therapy

Question 7

The ‘Period After Resolution Stage’ Stage

Answer 7

Usually after ~ 1 year

• May need more in-depth counselling on family issues/co-occurring disorders
• Most predictive factor of success at this point is Counsellor’s attitude re: treatment

➡ break through denial, engage family, be patient, set boundaries

• Group therapy helpful for peer counselling and modelling aspects