After a period of time in rehab, it is not uncommon for someone to feel like they can conquer the world once they get out. A professional rehab facility is supposed to provide an environment for an addict or alcoholic to recover, repair and learn how to maintain sobriety in a safe and secure environment free from guilt or judgment. However, when an individual leaves this safe environment and returns to the real World, it may not be easy to hold onto that confident feeling. There will be doubts and frustrations and problems; things that in the past cause them to resort to drugs and alcohol. There will be the presence of old “triggers” or the people who rode with them down the road to addiction. Because of this, the rate of relapse is relatively high. However, it does not have to be this way. There are ways to maintain sobriety after rehab.
These trigger situations could arise when you are around old friends or even family and experience certain situations that, in the past, you engaged in dangerous and reckless behavior with drugs or alcohol. There are certain things you can do to prevent this:
- A good and loyal support system– Find sober people who will have your back and support you through the good times and the times where you may feel like relapsing. Rely upon them when times are tough.
- Your environment– Make sure your new environment is free from all of the things that relate back to your old life of drugs and alcohol.
- Make goals– When you make goals for yourself it gives you a sense of hope and something to work for. And write them down!! Without being written down, goals can be more easily ignored.
- New habits– Get rid of old, destructive habits and create new, healthy habits that will support your sobriety. Build upon each positive decision you make and each new healthy habit you create in yourself.
Creating new, healthy habits is an important aspect of maintaining sobriety after rehab. One of the most important new habits should be to do intentional exercise. Having a healthy body goes a long way to having a healthy mind. As for the mind, meditation is a good way to stay centered and focused on the positive and to be thankful for the new opportunities that have been given to you.
Another new habit that most people do not realize they could do is to volunteer. Become a volunteer at a homeless shelter, at a rehab facility, at some charity; any place where you are selflessly giving and helping other people. When you help other people it tends to fill you with a sense of joy and contentment which goes a long way to keeping you be centered and maintaining your sobriety after rehab.
Deciding that you have a problem with drugs or alcohol and deciding to go to rehab in the first place is extremely difficult. But even though that battle is won, you still have to fight to maintain your sobriety after rehab. At Asana Recovery, our addiction professionals know the techniques and strategies to help you maintain your sobriety after rehab.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.