So you’ve undergone treatment for your addiction and you would like to believe that the worst is over.
Now what?
Leaving the contained environment of the treatment facility may be liberating for some. However, it can be disorienting for others. Either way, studies say–and many in recovery can also attest–that the weeks, even days, after rehab are vital drivers for a successful recovery and long-term sobriety.
If you or your family member or friend is someone who has just gotten out of rehab, you may consider our tips for ensuring that you maintain sobriety and apply all the learnings gained while spending months in treatment:
- Attend 12-step meetings. Studies show that those who continue attending 12-Step meetings are more successful at staying sober for longer periods of time, if not for good. They also have better chances of keeping in their recovery state of mind. We encourage going to these meetings immediately after being discharged or after graduating from the facility.
- Get preoccupied. Life after treatment means you will be getting back to school or work soon. However, while you are still not returning, it’s important to be occupied. Being idle is reportedly one of the biggest and most common triggers of addiction and relapse. Having a schedule or routine and religiously adhering to it is a great use of your time so you will not become sidetracked with your recovery.
- Stay connected with your peers. After treatment, you are advised to refrain from hanging out with your old peers who you do drugs with, or go to places where you used to indulge your addiction. However, that doesn’t mean you will not have a social life. Getting into a facility such as Bridges of Hope will allow you to meet new people. It is best to stay connected with them even after your treatment through aftercare groups and to have a support system you can talk to.
- Share your insights and help others. One of the best therapies many recovering addicts would tell you is helping others and sharing with those who are in the shoes that they used to be in. It gives them perspective from someone who genuinely understands them and in return, you will be able to strengthen your own commitment to sobriety. After all, you can’t keep it unless you give it away.
- Be realistic. Getting out of rehab is not a cure-all for your and your family’s problems. Plan on how you would like to tackle on your new life in sobriety. Creating realistic goals will help you be motivated, active, and positive in your life. Take it one day at a time and you will be fine. Pursue something you once put off because of your addiction. Better yet, don’t be afraid to try new things. The best thing about being sober is every experience would be from a fresher, better perspective–so make the most of it!
To find out more about our treatment programs or if you want to talk with a rehab specialist,
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