What Happens After Rehab?
Completing a rehab program is a major accomplishment, but not the final goal of addiction treatment. It’s important for recovering addicts to know that recovery is a lifelong process and a rehab program won’t fix all their problems.
After completing a detox program, a recovering addict returns to normal life. They may struggle to overcome temptations present in their environment and succumb to cravings. Friends and family of recovering addicts have a major role to play in addiction recovery. They must encourage their loved ones to adopt a healthy lifestyle, create positive distractions, and support positive change.
Different Types of Continuing Support After Rehab
After completing rehab, joining a support group that celebrates sobriety and helps members build solid action plans to avoid relapse is a good idea. They should also pursue their hobbies to keep their mind and body engaged.
- Sober Living: Staying in a sober living home after rehabilitation has numerous benefits for individuals in recovery. It provides a safe and supportive environment, free from triggers and influences that could cause a relapse. Additionally, it offers a sense of community, allowing individuals to connect with others who are also in recovery and share their experiences. This can help them develop healthy relationships and establish a support system.
- Individual therapy: The aim of individual therapy is to equip recovering addicts with the tools and skills they need to identify their triggers and beat cravings. In individual therapy, individuals work with their therapists to uncover distressing withdrawal symptoms and better understand the thought patterns that lead to cravings
- 12-step programs: 12-step programs are peer-based programs. The steps of a 12-step program are guiding principles that explain how to overcome addiction, avoid triggers, and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
- Follow-up checks: Regular mental and physical health check-ups can help a recovering addict stay on course. Periodic checkups with a mental health professional are a great way to track progress. Recovering addicts who have wounds or experience breathing and other problems should see their doctor for a detailed physical examination at regular intervals
Cutting Ties With Old Friends
After returning home from rehab, you need to cut ties with old friends who encourage substance abuse. Create a new group that includes friends who support you in your recovery if necessary. Stay away from places where you used to drink or take drugs or engage in addictive behaviors such as gambling. If you believe that alcohol will be served at a social gathering you are invited to, you might have to politely decline the invitation if you aren’t ready to resist cravings.
Creating a new Routine
A daily routine provides structure and can help keep you busy and occupied. To prevent boredom, make time for your hobbies, participate in sports, play video games, take dance/music lessons. Find new passions and participate in your community, volunteer at a local school or charity. Exercise regularly and follow a bedtime routine.
Life-Rock is committed to supporting individuals in addiction recovery. Our Petaluma men’s sober living house provides a safe, alcohol-free environment conducive to recovery. Have questions about our sober living program? Call (707) 575-9100 (men’s helpline) or (707) 575-9599 (women’s helpline).