Overcoming an addiction to drugs is a long-term process. But many former addicts often find it difficult to maintain their drug-free status without proper post-rehab lifestyle changes. Recovering addicts should be aware of the necessary life changes needed to remain drug-free.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES
There are several things a former drug user needs to maintain their sobriety. Knowing how to manage triggers, avoid high-risk situations, relieving stress, proper diet, continued group support or therapy session.
Triggers are the stimuli that initiate the desire to participate in drug use. These triggers can include:
- Stress
- Painful Memories
- Smells and Colors
- Specific dates of traumatic events
- People or Places
According to statistics “these stimuli can cause a neurochemical response that induces an intense craving for the drug and may lead to a relapse. The feeling can be overwhelming and difficult to manage without the proper skills or support.”
Managing triggers is the process of finding a healthier alternative when those triggers appear. A former addict can talk to a support person, engage in distraction activities and remind themselves of the consequences of a relapse.
It’s important for the recovering addict to avoid high-risk situations such as hunger, anger, being lonely and tired. These situations activate the craving for drugs.
Stress relief is necessary for post-rehab recovery. Techniques such as meditation and yoga are beneficial activities in relieving stress. Recreational activities that include physical activity and laughter is also a great stress reliever.
During drug addiction, the addict typically does not eat properly aiding in the damage the drugs cause on the body. Proper nutrition is vital to a healthy body. The former addict needs to consume protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals to bring their body back to health. These can all be obtained with the proper diet.
With recovery being a long-term process continued support and therapy sessions are vital to the journey. Once a former addict has been discharged from an inpatient or outpatient program, group sessions are made easily accessible. It is highly encouraged that the recovering addict receives the emotional support that these meetings provide.
BECOMING A SPONSOR
After implementing a successful recovery plan into their life, many former addicts want to give back by becoming sponsors themselves. Logically, what better a person to assist an addict on the road to recovery than a person that has been on that road before too. The definition of a sponsor is “a senior member of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous who has been in recovery usually for a least a year. Sponsors help navigate membership, answer questions, work on the 12-steps, and offer accountability.” In addition, when a former addict becomes a sponsor, this activity is a continuing mechanism on their journey of recovery.
Changing a lifestyle after drug addiction can be a long and hard journey but with proper support healthy habits and structure, life after drug addiction can be very fulfilling and rewarding.
At Asana Recovery, we provide a comprehensive treatment program to people with substance abuse issues. Each program is designed to the particular needs of each client so they can receive the help they need and deserve. If you or a loved one has been struggling with addiction, call us today at 949-438-4504 to speak with one of our admissions counselors.
