Dealing with an addiction can seem hopeless. There are many people who realize their lives are spiraling out of control because of an addiction, but they don't know what to do to combat the effects. The most important thing you can do is to seek treatment, no matter where you are in your addiction. Here are some things that you need to know about overcoming an addiction.

1. Decide You Want It for Yourself

One of the first steps to recovery is to decide that you want this for yourself. Too many people go into an addiction recovery program because a loved one or a court hearing says they have to. Although it is still good to try and get better for those that you love, it will be more effective if you decide that you want it for yourself. You need to see your life for what it is and gain the motivation that you need to press forward and experience real recovery. Sobriety is hard, and the detox process will be difficult, but it will at least be manageable if you are motivated for the right reasons.

2. Learn Your Triggers

Everyone has environmental factors that trigger certain emotions. Even someone who doesn't live with an addiction has factors that trigger feelings of anger, frustration, memories, and even a compulsion to do certain behaviors. This is why you need to critically think about the things that trigger you. For instance, if being with certain people only makes you want to use, then you need to do everything you can to stay away from those people. You should avoid places, foods, and even music that triggers you. The more you understand about your addiction and what causes it, the better off you will be.

3. Find a Sponsor

Lastly, you should find a sponsor who has been through a similar addiction and is in recovery. This person will be someone you can call and connect with when times get hard to help keep you on track. In the early days of your recovery, you may talk to this sponsor hourly. They might be texting or calling you to make sure that you are staying on target. Then, as things get better, you may talk to your sponsor once a day, once a week, and so forth.

A sponsor should be someone who is not emotionally attached to you, someone with whom you can be honest, and someone who personally understands your addiction.