Addiction is arguably one of the biggest challenges our society faces every single day. The sad truth is that not all of recovering addicts can transition successfully. Some will relapse and suffer from withdrawal and start the whole process of rehabilitation again and after some time, addiction can become more of a dangerous habit than an escape. Sometimes, the only way to get rid of an addiction is to replace it with a different habit; something that takes the mind off of cravings and channels that energy into a more productive and positive cause.
Here are four recommended ways to adjust back to life after addiction:
Addiction Treatment
A lot of agencies often only focus on beating an addiction rather than thinking about what happens next. Life after rehabilitation should be planned during and while still under rehabilitation. Identifying the signs of addiction, such as anxiety, mood swings, isolation, and anger should be taught during addiction treatment. You may suffer from physical, mental or emotional relapse and your behaviour will change, therefore it is important that you know how to recognise and eventually manage or deter them. Every rehab centers in California should implement a relapse prevention plan and a recovery exercise to make the transition easier and as normal as possible.
Be in a Safe and Supportive Environment
Being in a safe and supportive environment means living somewhere where you are both comfortable and free to recover. You should also spend less time with people who are the bad influence and who serve only to encourage your addiction. There may be times when you succumb to relapse, however you should not let that small setback keep you from recovering permanently. A supportive environment is one in which you are surrounded by family and friends who will draw you away from loneliness and isolation and give you the necessary push when you are conflicted with your decisions.
Stay Healthy
Developing a healthy habit with food and lifestyle in general during and after rehabilitation is essential to your transition. Sleeping and waking up early, eating healthy and whole foods instead of junk food and exercising regularly will help keep you motivated to stay fit and fend off addiction. Research has also proven that having an exercise routine can help improve your energy levels, self-confidence and sense of wellbeing. The important thing to remember is to give yourself enough time to adjust and develop positive habits. They should come to you organically and not be forced.
Have a Goal in Mind
Having an end goal will help you stay on track and reap the rewards at the end. Maybe it’s not so much about transitioning back to your old life before rehab, maybe it’s about moving on and becoming a better person with a better and well-balanced life. Find a feasible goal and set milestones so that you can track your progress. These goals might include getting a new apartment for you to live on your own, traveling around Europe, getting a job or even going back to school to finish a degree. Addiction is a life-changing event and knowing that you still have a future makes rehabilitation and recovery a clear choice.
*Collaborative Post
