Becoming bored is one of the worst things to happen while you are in recovery. While you are in a treatment center, you will be considered to be in “early recovery.” This is the time that you will be learning how to manage your addictions and how to function in the outside world. You may have already realized that you have a problem turning to drugs or alcohol when you are bored. What will you do during rehab? You already know that you are there to quit your addition completely, so what will you do when you aren’t in therapy sessions?
The first thing you should do is to be as honest as you can with your therapist the moment you start fighting boredom in rehab. They will be able to give you the proper guidance you will need to stay sober and remain in the program. Don’t let boredom jeopardize your early recovery efforts! If you are asking yourself “how do I avoid getting bored during downtime in a treatment center?” read on for some helpful hints!
1. Resist the urge to browse social media
If you are permitted to use the internet during your stay, you will probably want to jump on social media to see what everyone is up to. Sounds harmless, right? Unfortunately, using social media can lead to sensory overload while you are in recovery. When this happens, you begin to lose your ability to be able to focus on other things for a long period of time. Additionally, you may be triggered by what you see on social media and feel the urge to use again.
2. Learn how to focus your mind
Downtime in recovery is a great time to do activities you may have put off in your regular life, such as yoga and meditation. Practicing these two mindful activities will allow you to calm your mind and focus on the positives. Don’t worry if you have never done this before. You’ll have the time you need to practice meditation and to learn yoga moves. You’ll learn mindfulness and self-control, which are two factors that will help decrease the odds that you will relapse later.
3. Keep a detailed journal
Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and worries can be a very rewarding pastime when you are bored. Recovery is difficult, and you likely have a lot of emotions running through your mind at all times. Writing them down will help you make sense of it all. When you take the time to journal what you are feeling every day, you will have something fun to look forward to.
4. Try out a new hobby
Have you always wanted to learn a new hobby but never seemed to have the time? Well, now you do! Don’t be scared to try out a new hobby while you are in recovery, such as drawing, painting, crocheting, or photography. If you don’t have the means or equipment you need, turn to the internet to learn more about your interest. That way, you’ll be prepared for when you do have the ability to purchase the equipment or supplies needed for the hobby.
5. Get an education
Many addicts in recovery use their downtime to get their GED or to finish an online degree. If you can get online for a certain amount of hours a day, use this time to better educate yourself. If you already have your diploma or a degree, consider learning something new, such as a language.
6. Offer to volunteer
You may be asked to volunteer during your time in rehab. If you aren’t, consider asking if you can. Rehab centers often need help in the kitchen and with general cleaning duties, and volunteering to help will get your mind and body moving. You’ll have something to focus on other than drugs and alcohol.
7. Read or write
If you love to read, now is the time to lose yourself in a good book or two. You’ll get your mind somewhere else instead of on drugs or alcohol. This is also a good time to write a story or write to family and friends. You’ll have plenty of time to gather your thoughts before you put pen to paper.
Remaining active is the best way that you will avoid boredom during rehab. We make sure that you engage your mind during the days of rehab by providing you with the tools you will need to stay sober. Give us a call today to find out more at 772-266-5320.
