17/06/2025
The Power of Decision in Substance Use Recovery
As a Psychotherapist, I witness firsthand the profound impact of decision-making in the journey toward recovery from substance abuse. One recurring question I pose to clients struggling with alcohol or drug dependence is: What is your decision about substance use now?
Why this question? Because in countless cases, individuals only seek help after developing a tolerance to the substances they use. At this stage, they often experience withdrawal symptoms—hallucinations, tremors, and other distressing effects—when they either haven’t used the substance or have consumed too much. This is a critical phase in addiction where the body requires increasingly larger doses to achieve the same high that smaller amounts once produced.
Most clients come to therapy not necessarily because they want to quit, but because they want relief from these unpleasant symptoms. Of course, some genuinely desire to stop using, but many are simply looking for a way to escape the immediate discomfort.
My role as a Psychotherapist is to support, not to impose. I can guide, teach, and encourage—but real change only occurs when the individual makes a firm, internal decision to stop. Without a solid commitment, even after medical treatment relieves the symptoms, many clients quickly relapse.
When the decision to stop is strong and sincere, my task shifts to reinforcing that choice. I focus on equipping clients with practical tools—how to cope with cravings, resist peer pressure, and understand the health risks of continued substance use. With this knowledge, they’re better prepared to make informed and lasting decisions.
For those deeply entrenched in substance use, their decision can influence critical life outcomes: whether they complete their education, secure or maintain employment, build healthy relationships, or live with dignity and purpose.
However, even with the best intentions and a strong resolve, life doesn’t pause its challenges. Stressful situations can trigger old patterns and temptations. I remind my clients: the beer will still taste the same; the drug will still offer that familiar escape. But with awareness and the coping strategies gained in therapy, they are better positioned to resist and stay the course toward sobriety.
Ultimately, the journey begins—and continues—with one powerful truth: recovery hinges on the strength of their decision.
