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The power to change resides within all of us—a deep internal force urging us to improve and excel. Making a positive change in life is akin to searching for a rare and precious diamond in a mine. Amid the dark and ashy rocks lies something sacred and beautiful that can transform your life. However, it requires a willingness to roll up your sleeves and venture into a dark and daunting place with no promises or guarantees.
It's chaotic in there. Taking the risk to improve your life requires courage.
When an addict takes the leap of faith to get sober, they often realize that they must confront uncomfortable and painful past experiences. Facing one’s past can be extremely difficult, but with the support of professionals, family, and friends, they learn to overcome the barriers of addiction that keep them stuck and miserable. As days of sobriety turn into weeks, the addict begins to discover their true self and capabilities.
Gaining insight into addiction from the addict’s perspective helps us understand why it’s so hard for them to stop using. You might know someone who has lost everything to drugs and alcohol, perhaps watching them destroy fulfilling careers and important relationships due to their addiction. Why would anyone choose to live this way? Why continue substance abuse knowing it leads to isolation, physical and emotional pain, and an untimely death?
To answer these questions, consider the diamond-in-the-mine analogy. Imagine the diamond represents sobriety, and the rest of the mine is the “stuff” the addict must endure to find it. What incentive would they have to venture into the uncharted territory of their innermost fears and insecurities? They are plagued by questions about their family—”Will they forgive me? Will I see my kids again? If I find my diamond, what if I relapse and lose it?”
From the addict’s perspective, they know that using again will provide temporary solace and relief from the internal demons haunting them. Digging around in the mine of early sobriety means facing even greater difficulties. Even if they take the leap of faith, there’s no guarantee they’ll maintain sobriety, mend damaged relationships, or find true happiness.
People with addiction often experience a push-pull cycle, feeling a push to make a positive change but pulling away due to fear, self-doubt, and lack of social support.
Many wonder how to motivate someone to stop using drugs or abusing alcohol. The truth is, you can’t make them change. There’s nothing you can say or do to make a loved one miraculously recognize their self-destructive path. Threats, removing material possessions, or setting strict ground rules won’t make an addict see the error of their ways.
Motivation and change don’t work like that. Instead, ask yourself, “What incentive does Johnny have for quitting, and how can I help him find it?” Consider what Johnny wanted to do or aspire to be before he started using, and gently remind him of those things with compassion.
Don’t withdraw your love or threaten to abandon him. Rather, set mindful boundaries and be available to provide support and encouragement, both when he asks for it and when he doesn’t.
Remember, you are not supporting his habit, but you are supporting him. While you may refuse to let Johnny enter your home at 2:00 AM, you haven’t closed your doors entirely. Have a brief and non-confrontational conversation with him about rehab as soon as possible. Share how it feels to watch him self-destruct and explain your concerns without being judgmental.
Remind him of what used to bring him happiness and the raw, untapped potential that lies ahead if he gets sober.
Being fully present is enough. Sometimes the best way to reach someone is to stop talking and start listening. Try to understand addiction from your loved one’s perspective and why giving up the substance is so challenging. Put yourself in his shoes to better understand his fears, support him through the darkest moments, and inspire him to take a step in the right direction.
For consultation, please reach out to Sunrise Recovery. Our Admissions Consultants will guide you through the recovery process and help you begin at a drug and alcohol recovery center.

Why Choose Sunrise Recovery?
Sunrise Recovery stands out due to its multidisciplinary team of experts, individualized care plans, and commitment to long-term recovery. The center’s approach integrates medical, psychological, and social support, offering a well-rounded path to sobriety. Learn more about Sunrise Recovery here.
Recap
Overcoming addiction is a complex and challenging process. By understanding addiction scientifically and empathetically, and exploring effective treatment options, individuals can find the courage to pursue sobriety. Sunrise Recovery provides the necessary support and resources to help addicts reclaim their lives.
To hear from those who have successfully navigated their recovery journey with our help, check out our testimonials for more personal stories and experiences.
For more detailed information on how Sunrise Recovery can assist with Medical Detox and other treatment programs, contact Sunrise Recovery today at +1 (877) 978 – 6747 or visit our website to learn about our programs and support options.
Next Steps
For those struggling with addiction, seeking professional help is crucial. A consultation with Sunrise Recovery can guide individuals through the recovery process and help them begin their journey towards a healthier, sober life. Read our related article here.