The World Health Organization approximates that about 31 million people suffer from drug use disorder and addiction. The common drugs that are abused are prescription medication, narcotics, and alcohol. In the United States of America alone, over 19 million adults are struggling with substance abuse. Financial research done by the National Survey on Drug Abuse and Health estimates that America loses over $450 billion annually to drug and substance abuse in the form of work power, rehabilitation cost, and health care expenses. Drug addiction is a disease. It causes individuals not to function optimally without using or abusing. The journey of rehabilitation and recovery from drug addiction is not an easy task. It takes discipline and hard work.
Life After Rehab, How To Stay Sober?
Now that you have taken the first step to healing by joining a rehab center and completing a treatment program, how can one stay clean and sober? Here are some essential tips that will ensure that you remain sober as you rejoin society.
Identify And Avoid Triggers.
When you are in the rehabilitation center, you were in a defined space, which created an excellent environment that facilitated healing and recovery. Upon rejoining society, it is your responsibility to identify your triggers and try to avoid them. It could be some old friend, emotional trauma, or stress. Learn how to manage stressful conditions without resulting in old bad habits. Stress management is an essential skill that recovering addicts must learn.
Confront Your Past Mistakes, Traumas, And Behaviors.
Most addicts fall into addiction as a way of coping with past mistakes or experiences. It is crucial to seek professional help from psychiatrists to help you deal with your past pain. It is vital to deal with the core reason for addiction as part of the recovery journey. Additionally, as part of the program, recovering addicts are encouraged to ask for forgiveness from loved ones whom they had wronged while still under the influence. They should not expect forgiveness immediately, and they must understand that it takes time. Explain to them that you are now a changed person and ready to turn over a new leaf.
Have A Strong Support System.
Recovering addicts are advised to join support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Additionally, one can sign up for sponsorship programs. A sponsor is a recuperating addict who has stayed substance-free for a more extended period than you. They identify more with your struggles; hence it will be easier to talk to them. Also, identifying family or close friends who wish nothing but the best for you and support you will go a long way in preventing drug relapse. Build healthy relationships that will strengthen your healing journey.
Set Personal Goals.
Actual change starts from within. Set goals, both big and small goals, and achieve them. Goals that will push you to expand your limits, and you will be surprised at how far you can go. Celebrate those small wins the same way you would the big wins. When you are down and discouraged or tempted to relapse, be grateful, and remember the people routing for you. Appreciating your hard work will motivate you to do better.
Find Activities To Occupy Your Leisure Time.
An idle mind is a devil’s workshop. Find activities that you enjoy and participate in to keep yourself busy. It could be:
- Joining the sports team that you have always wanted.
- Volunteering at the foundation that you always desire to contribute.
- Learning a new language.
- Joining that online class.
- Read, meditate, or practice your talent.
Whatever activity that you decide to engage in, ensure that it does not present triggers.
Exercise And Eat Healthy.
Substance abuse and misuse takes a toll not only on your emotional life but also on your health. After coming out of rehab, it is good to exercise and eat right to reset your body. The benefits of exercise are:
- Exercise releases endorphins that are the feel-good hormones.
- Exercise helps your body and mind to detox. Remember that a healthy body leads to a healthy mind.
- Exercise provides structure and plans to your day.
- Exercise enhances sleep.
- Also, exercise is an active coping mechanism.
- It provides you with an opportunity to meet other sober people and give a sense of belonging.
Relax And Take The Pressure Off Yourself.
As a recovering addict, there is a lot that is expected from you. Often, you may feel the pressure to perform or behave a certain way. Engaging in relaxing activities will take off the load off your back. Examples of these activities are:
- Taking yoga classes.
- Meditation.
- Listening to music.
- Reading.
- Painting.
- Nature walks and breathing exercises.
If you have a loved one struggling with addiction, we can help. Call us now on 954-523-1167.