Rehab is known to have a high level of success in helping adults recover from addiction to drugs or alcohol. The resources and tools provided allow many people to feel empowered and capable of maintaining their sobriety. It also helps them to discover the underlying causes of their substance abuse. Although rehab consists of detox, group therapy, and individual therapy, some people aren’t aware of what occurs after rehab.
It can be intimidating to return to the real world without having a plan in place. Fortunately, rehab facilities and programs provide patients with assistance to ensure they have the support they need to remain sober. After completing a rehab program, it’s important to know what to expect afterward as you return to your life and commitments.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy is recommended to continue healing and growing as an individual after becoming sober. One-on-one sessions that you attend every week or month can allow you to have the support of a professional and continue to gain more confidence to abstain from drugs or alcohol. Undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy will allow you to learn more about your substance abuse and the underlying causes. This can allow you to work through any pain or trauma that you’ve experienced and find healthier ways to cope with it.
Transitional Housing
Some people move into transitional housing after leaving rehab as a way to regain some of their responsibilities in a setting where accountability is provided. Transitional housing is temporary but offers support to residents and can help each person find employment. Also known as sober living homes, the setting is drug-free and requires paying rent. Residents must follow specific rules for living in the household and can develop friendships with other residents. Typically, each household is men-only or women-only.
Support Groups
Many people are capable of remaining sober and avoiding relapsing due to support groups that they attend on a consistent basis. Support groups can allow you to form bonds and make connections with people who have had similar experiences. You can spend time in a safe space that allows you to remain vulnerable and discuss the progress you make as you remain sober. The lessons and techniques you learn will allow you to learn more about addiction and continue to recover.
Developing a Social Life
When you’ve had an addiction in the past, it can be easy to lose a lot of friends and relationships. Returning to your life after spending time in rehab is a way to form new friendships with people who are healthy and support you. You can get the chance to choose who you want in your inner circle with people who won’t tempt you to return to drugs or alcohol.
Find New Hobbies
Although it can be easy to become bored when you have more free time after becoming sober, finding new hobbies and interests can allow you to feel fulfilled and adopt new interests in life. Consider trying different activities, which can include playing tennis, cycling, painting, writing, reading, and playing video games. Enroll in different classes to learn new skills and have activities to look forward to throughout the week. You can also attend conventions and events to learn about specific topics. Prioritizing time to have fun is crucial to ensure you can enjoy life and feel enriched. Attend comedy shows, go to the movies, buy tickets to concerts, and share meals with people you care about to ensure you can unwind and feel more at ease. Scheduling fun activities will also provide you with something to always look forward to during the week.
Practice Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is necessary to ensure you continue to value and respect yourself. Take the time to exercise and eat a clean diet, which can boost your energy levels and improve your mood. Practicing physical fitness throughout the week will release endorphins, which can reduce the risk of returning to drugs or alcohol. It can also reduce your stress levels, which can prevent you from relapsing when you encounter struggles in life. If you want to learn more information about what happens after rehab, feel free to contact us at 302-842-2390 for more information.
