Deflecting blame for destructive behavior is a hallmark of substance use disorders – stemming from the denial that accompanies active addiction. Recovery requires you to take full responsibility for your actions and the impact they have had on those around you.
The Importance of Accountability
In the throes of addiction, many people go to great lengths to avoid acknowledging the pain and suffering they cause their friends, family, and loved ones. This avoidance can perpetuate the cycle of addiction, making it challenging to break free. In many cases, recovery is your first chance to evaluate your behavior and own the harm you’ve caused. Then, healing can begin.
Taking accountability in recovery is crucial because it allows you to rebuild trust with those you’ve hurt and lays the foundation for lasting change. It also helps you develop the self-awareness and responsibility needed to maintain sobriety in the long term.
How to Take Ownership of Your Actions
Here are seven essential ways to practice accountability in your recovery journey.
1. Admitting Mistakes
The first step in accountability is recognizing how your actions have hurt the people who care about you. While admitting these mistakes can be uncomfortable, it is critical for rebuilding relationships.
2 .Attending Therapy or Support Group Meetings
Consistency is vital in recovery. Attending scheduled therapy sessions or support group meetings is one way to hold yourself accountable for your progress. These sessions provide a safe space to explore your feelings, gain insights, and receive guidance on how to manage the ups and downs of recovery.
3. Apologizing Sincerely
When you say or do something harmful, a heartfelt apology demonstrates that you are taking responsibility for your actions and that you genuinely want to mend relationships and rebuild trust.
4. Asking for Help
Recognizing when you’re going through a difficult time and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Reaching out to a therapist, support group, or trusted friend shows your commitment to staying on the right path.
5. Trying Different Approaches
Recovery is a lifelong process of growth and learning. Sometimes, you may need to adjust the strategies that worked at the beginning as you progress. Openness to trying new things is a key aspect of accountability.
6. Using Healthy Coping Mechanisms
In treatment, you will learn various healthy coping mechanisms and life skills. Consistently using these tools can help you deal with stress, triggers, and other challenges without resorting to substance use.
7. Following Through on Promises
Reliability is the foundation of trust. Following through on the promises you make to others shows you are dependable and trustworthy.
Acknowledge Your Potential for Positive Change
Lastly, you must embrace the power within you to transform your life. Accountability is about believing in your ability to grow and make positive changes moving forward.
Accountability is one of the most powerful tools in recovery. By taking ownership of your actions, you can begin to heal the relationships that matter most to you and reshape your future. At Legacy Texas, our best-in-class addiction and mental health professionals use integrative and science-backed therapies that enable our clients to engage in collective accountability. Take the first courageous step and call us today.