How to Deal With Ambivalence in Recovery

Ambivalence is a common part of recovery, where individuals feel torn between change and substance use. Learn how motivational interviewing and other strategies help overcome this internal conflict to support long-term sobriety.

Ambivalence is a common and often challenging experience in addiction recovery. This internal conflict can significantly hinder progress toward sobriety and prolong the recovery journey. 

In this article, we’ll break down what ambivalence means in the context of addiction recovery, why it happens, and how it can stall progress. We’ll also explore how approaches like motivational interviewing help individuals work through this internal conflict and move toward lasting change.

substance abuse

Understanding Ambivalence in Recovery

Ambivalence is the experience of having conflicting feelings about recovery—wanting to quit substance use while still feeling attached to the comfort, relief, or routine it brings. This internal struggle is common in addiction and can show up as hesitation, procrastination, or resistance to treatment. 

It’s often fueled by brain chemistry changes during early abstinence, which trigger intense cravings, as well as fears about withdrawal, life without substances, or losing social connections. Emotional discomfort, anxiety about the unknown, and doubts about whether treatment will work can deepen the conflict. Signs of ambivalence include mood swings, guilt, defensiveness, and rationalizing substance use. 

It’s important to note that ambivalence isn’t a sign of failure. It’s a natural, expected part of the recovery journey. Recognizing it early and working through it can strengthen commitment and reduce the risk of relapse.

Individuals experiencing ambivalence during addiction recovery should seek professional help at an addiction treatment center, where trained clinicians can provide support through evidence-based approaches like motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and personalized care planning.

The Impact of Ambivalence on the Recovery Journey

Ambivalence often prolongs inaction, keeping individuals stuck in the contemplation stage rather than moving forward to preparation and active change. 

This hesitation increases the risk of relapse, as unresolved ambivalence leaves a person vulnerable to cravings and negative emotions. Ambivalence can also cause emotional distress, including frustration and self-criticism, which further undermines motivation to change. Ambivalence can affect engagement with various addiction treatment options, from detox and inpatient rehab to outpatient programs and intensive outpatient treatment. 

Without addressing ambivalence, clients may prematurely leave treatment centers or fail to fully participate in therapeutic interventions, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment plan. Overcoming ambivalence is critical to sustaining motivation and commitment throughout the recovery process.

Strategies to Overcome Ambivalence in Recovery

Motivational Interviewing: A Therapeutic Approach

One of the most effective therapeutic approaches to work through ambivalence is motivational interviewing (MI). MI is a client-centered, directive method that helps individuals freely explore their ambivalence without judgment or confrontation.

Therapists using MI employ empathetic listening and open-ended questions to help clients articulate their mixed feelings and recognize discrepancies between their current behaviors and long-term goals. This process enhances the client’s intrinsic motivation to change by focusing on personal values and the benefits of sobriety.

The benefits of motivational interviewing include reducing resistance, increasing readiness for change, and empowering clients to take ownership of their recovery journey. MI works to overcome ambivalence by creating a safe space for honest self-reflection and fostering hope, making it a cornerstone of many addiction treatment programs.

Cognitive and Behavioral Techniques

In addition to MI, cognitive and behavioral techniques can help individuals clarify their thoughts and feelings about recovery. Creating pros and cons lists allows clients to weigh the negative consequences of substance use against the benefits of sobriety, providing clearer motivation to change. 

Mindfulness practices encourage observing ambivalent feelings without judgment, reducing anxiety and promoting acceptance. Values clarification exercises help align behavioral changes with a person’s core beliefs and goals, strengthening commitment.

Developing coping skills to manage cravings and triggers is also essential. Learning how to respond to urges and stressful situations without resorting to substance use builds confidence and reduces the likelihood of relapse.

desire to change

Emotional Exploration and Support

Working through ambivalence requires acknowledging and expressing the complex emotions involved. Therapy, peer support groups, and trusted loved ones provide vital spaces for emotional exploration

Naming feelings such as fear, guilt, or skepticism helps reduce their power and fosters self-compassion. Patience is key, as ambivalence often fluctuates throughout early recovery.

Practical Steps

Breaking down recovery into manageable steps can reduce overwhelm and promote action. Setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories builds momentum. Planning for relapse prevention acknowledges setbacks as part of the process rather than failure, encouraging persistence.

The Role of Treatment Providers and Loved Ones

Therapists and treatment centers play a crucial role in supporting individuals experiencing ambivalence. Recognizing ambivalence as a normal part of recovery helps providers avoid misinterpreting client ambivalence as resistance or noncompliance. Instead, they can create a nonjudgmental environment that encourages clients to freely explore their ambivalence and develop motivation to change.

Loved ones also contribute by offering consistent encouragement without pressure or confrontation. Understanding that ambivalence may cause procrastination or avoidance can help families respond with empathy rather than frustration.

Embracing Ambivalence as Part of Growth

Rather than viewing ambivalence as a barrier, it can be embraced as a natural and even necessary part of the recovery process. Accepting mixed feelings allows individuals to move beyond black-and-white thinking and develop a more nuanced understanding of their addiction and recovery. Ambivalence can serve as an opportunity for self-reflection, helping individuals build resilience and flexibility in their treatment plans.

Final Thoughts from New Chapter Faith Recovery

Understanding and embracing ambivalence as part of the recovery journey empowers individuals to move forward toward lasting sobriety and a healthier, more fulfilling life. At New Chapter Recovery in New Jersey, we recognize that ambivalence is a natural and expected part of the recovery process. 

Our intensive outpatient program incorporates motivational interviewing, an evidence-based, client-centered approach designed to support individuals as they navigate conflicting thoughts and feelings about change, emphasizing empathy, collaboration, and respect for personal autonomy, creating a safe space where clients can explore their motivations, values, and readiness for recovery. 

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