After finishing up a drug rehab program, there can be mixed emotions. You obviously feel great because you are no longer using drugs, but there can be an uneasy feeling as you prepare to go back into the “real world.” This is completely normal!
Individuals usually spend 4 -12 weeks in a treatment center atmosphere, and there are even some programs that last a year or longer. While drug rehab is not easy, it is a sheltered environment that makes it easier to stay focused. There are also trained medical professionals and counselors who can help you through any difficult times.
So when its time to head back home after a long stay at treatment the best thing you can do to ensure you have a successful recovery is make a plan of what you will do.
Your After Treatment Plan
Here are some things to include in you plan after rehab:
- Make sure your living situation is supportive of recovery .
- Receive additional counselling and continue working on yourself.
- Set short and long term goals.
- Find a recovery meeting that fits your needs.
- Find healthy individuals to hang out with that support you recovery.
- Look for a job
- Go back to school
- Be Social and stay active
The above list includes a few things to work into your plan after rehab. Do your best to try and make realistic short and long-term goals, so you are not discouraged. The main purpose of a plan is to keep you on track and help you make the beginning stages of your recovery easier.
Things to Avoid
Many people fall into the trap of thinking that since they went to rehab then, they are “cured” and no longer have to worry about their addiction. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The first couple weeks after returning home from treatment are when most individuals are vulnerable to relapse and can fall back into their old habits.
Here are some things you should stay away from when you first get home:
- Hanging around places you used to use drugs or drink
- Getting involved in previously toxic relationships
- Making unrealistic goals
- Convining your you do not need additional support
- Isolating and avoiding people
- Taking on too much responsibility
- Being inactive
- eating unhealthy
There are multiple thing to consider when you get down with a drug treatment program, but just remember that having a plan will help you manage the beginning stages of recovery. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and if something is bothering you or causing an issue it always good to communicate it. No one recovery journey is the same but they all the same goal. How yo reach yours is up to you.
