Checking into a rehab facility will always be the very best choice when you are an addict. Rehab allows you to find yourself again in a comfortable and non-threatening environment. Your therapists and counselors will help you figure out what your triggers are and how to avoid relapse in the future. You’ll learn how you can live your life without having to use drugs or alcohol to get through your day.
However, this is still a somewhat stressful time for you! You’re likely concerned about what will happen when you are through with rehab and living on your own. How will you deal with the different stresses of life? In the past, you used alcohol when you had a bad day of work or popped a few pills when you were feeling lonely and depressed. In many cases, you did both! Now that you can no longer use drugs or alcohol as a crutch, just what can you do?
To learn what to do after your rehab program is over, consider these five things that can support you through stress like your addiction used to do.
1. Family Members and Friends
We’re hoping you have family members who will be there for you when you need help dealing with your stress. There is a good chance you had someone in your family push you to go through rehab, so it is also a good chance they will be happy to be there for you when you need to talk or vent. You should also, hopefully, be able to count on friends to get you through the tough times. Just be sure that you don’t start taking advantage of their kindness. It’s important to give and take when you are in a relationship, whether it is with your family members or with your best friends.
2. Pets
If you already have a pet or pets, great! Pets can be a major source of strength when you are feeling upset or stressed. This is especially true if you have a support animal that looks after you. If you don’t already own a pet, consider looking into one when you are through with rehab. Not only will they be able to help you through those particularly stressful times, but they will also help you stay busy and focused. That’s important when you are in recovery!
3. Physical Fitness
There is no better way to battle stress than with physical fitness. No matter what level you are at when it comes to exercise, there is an activity you can do to take your mind off of stress. If you can join a gym, sign up once you’re out of rehab. Being able to work out will release endorphins, and you’ll get your mind off of your problems. Even if you can’t join a gym, get active any way that you can. Take a run when you get stressed or punch a heavy bag to get the anger out. Honestly, the options are endless.
4. Additional Therapy and a Sponsor
Therapy shouldn’t end just because you are done with rehab. Make sure you have, at the very least, a support group to turn to when you are back to your normal life. Without it, the stresses you will be faced with might be too much for you to handle. Set up therapy sessions with your therapist or counselor or start attending local AA or NA meetings. If you have a sponsor, don’t hesitate to call or text them when you need a shoulder to lean on. That’s what they are there for! Again, don’t abuse your privileges. Make sure you give what you take!
5. Significant Other
Everyone should have someone they can talk to when they are stressed out. If you are married or have a life partner, being able to talk to them when you need help the most is important. Your loved one should be there to help you through the hard times, especially when rehab is over and the world is coming at you hard and fast. Be open about the help you need from the start. Your significant other will be a great source of comfort for you when the stress is too much to handle.
Ready for help? Check us out!
When it is time for you to make the change in your life that you know is necessary, give us a call. You can reach us anytime at 844-844-3463. We’ll help you find the right program for your needs as quickly as possible.