7 Tips to Help You Thrive After Rehab
Published: April 19, 2022
Completing a rehab program is a huge accomplishment. It takes a lot of courage, strength, and determination. However, recovery doesn’t stop once you leave rehab. Living drug-free is a life-long commitment. The transition to life outside of rehab comes with a new set of freedoms, challenges, and benefits.
Adjusting to Life After Rehab
One of the biggest challenges you may face after rehab is adjusting to life outside of treatment. In many ways, rehab becomes its own little world. During rehab, you are in a safe and drug-free environment free of temptation. You also have a set schedule and routine to follow. However, once you leave rehab, all of that structure goes away.
These tips may help you adjust to life outside of rehab and maintain your sobriety:
1. Continue Attending Therapy and Treatment Sessions
After rehab, you may think you have everything under control and no longer need help. But like many chronic illnesses, addiction is something you may have to manage for the rest of your life.
Attending regular therapy and treatment sessions may help keep your addiction in check. These sessions may also provide you with a support system of people who know what it’s like to adjust to life after rehab.
2. Create a Support System
One of the most important things you can do after rehab is create a support system. This may include family, friends, or joining a 12-step program. Having a reliable support system may be vital for maintaining sobriety.
When you feel like you are about to relapse or are having a tough day, reach out to your support system. These people may provide you with encouragement and guidance. In addition, you may have many unanswered questions about life after rehab. Your support system may be an excellent resource for finding answers.
3. Find New Hobbies
Now sober, you may have some free time on your hands. This is the perfect time to find new hobbies and activities that make you happy. On the other hand, having too much free time may increase your chances of relapse. Find positive and productive ways to fill your time.
Some hobbies you may want to consider include:
- Exercising
- Reading
- Hiking
- Playing sports
- Volunteering
- Doing crafts
- Journaling
Being productive is one of the best ways to stay sober. In addition to picking up a new hobby, working or going to school may help you stay busy and provide a sense of purpose. Whatever you choose to do, make sure it is something that makes you happy and keeps you engaged.
4. Avoid Relapse Triggers
Identifying your triggers is vital for maintaining sobriety. For some people, triggers may be certain places or situations. For others, triggers may be emotions or situations.
If you find yourself caught in a situation where you struggle to stay sober, remove yourself from the problem as soon as possible. Furthermore, you may avoid relapse by hanging out with sober friends, staying busy, and attending therapy sessions.
5. Develop a Healthy Routine
Developing a healthy routine after rehab is one of the best things you can do for yourself. This may include exercising, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep. Creating a routine will help your body and mind feel better. This may make it easier for you to resist temptation and stay sober.
While building a new routine may take some time, it is important to be patient. Start with small changes and goals that you know you can achieve. Then, as you start to feel better physically and mentally, you can add more changes to your routine.
6. Seek Help if You Relapse
If you happen to relapse, it is crucial to seek help as soon as possible. This may mean returning to rehab or attending more therapy sessions. Do not be afraid or ashamed to ask for help.
7. Visit Rockland Treatment Center
Whether you are out of rehab or still in the process of recovering, Rockland Treatment Center offers a variety of services and programs to help you stay sober. From outpatient programs to group therapy and 12-step programs, we are here to help you every step of the way.
Find Alcohol and Drug Addiction Rehab at Rockland Treatment Center
No matter where you are in your journey to sobriety, Rockland Treatment Center provides the resources and support you need to stay on track. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we encourage you to reach out for help. Contact Rockland Treatment Center today and start living a sober and fulfilling life.