How to Overcome an Addiction | How to Break an Addiction in Maine

Breaking an addiction is more than stopping the use of a substance. It’s about transforming your mind, body, and life—one day at a time.

The first step in overcoming addiction is recognizing there is one. Denial is a common part of addiction, but honest self-assessment can open the door to change.

Signs someone may be ready for help include:

• Repeated failed attempts to stop
• Damaged relationships or job loss due to substance use
• Health issues related to drug or alcohol use
• Increasing isolation, shame, or despair

If you’re unsure whether it’s time, we invite you to reach out confidentially—even if it’s just to ask questions.

Surrender doesn’t mean giving up. It means letting go of the illusion of control. At Recovery Connections of Maine, we see surrender as a powerful beginning.

It looks like:

• Admitting that “I can’t do this alone.”
• Being open to support, whether it’s from a loved one or a professional.
• Saying yes to help, even if you don’t feel fully ready.

You don’t need to feel 100% certain to take the next step. Willingness is enough.

Trying to overcome addiction alone is not only overwhelming—it can be dangerous. Medical support, structure, and peer community are essential for long-term recovery.

At Recovery Connections of Maine, we offer:

• Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP) for substance use and co-occurring disorders
• Sober Living Homes for men and women, starting at only $700/month
• Recovery housing and wraparound support
• MaineCare and private insurance options
• On-site and virtual access to therapists and addiction professionals

We are based in Lewiston-Auburn, serving individuals across Portland, Bangor, and the surrounding Maine communities.

No one recovers in isolation. A network of peers, professionals, and mentors is crucial.

Suggestions:

• Attend local AA/NA or SMART Recovery meetings
• Connect with our recovery community at Recovery Connections
• Involve trusted family or friends in your recovery journey

Breaking addiction is a daily effort. Consistency beats perfection.

What works:

• Structured routines and accountability
• Therapy (individual, group, or both)
• Physical activity and healthy nutrition
• Journaling, prayer, or meditation
• Staying connected to your sober community

If you’re watching someone you care about suffer, you can still prepare to support them when they’re ready.

Here’s what you can do:

• Educate yourself on addiction and recovery
• Attend family support groups (like Al-Anon)
• Avoid enabling behaviors
• Set healthy boundaries
• Have a plan ready, including contact with a treatment provider like Recovery Connections of Maine

When they do ask for help, you’ll be ready to act with compassion and clarity.