The first few days out of rehab can be a road bump for any newly-initiated ex-addict. If you are facing the first day on your own, this blog post will give you some helpful advice on making yourself feel a little more comfortable. It’s easy for the feelings that went with drug abuse to manifest in different ways – but it’s important not to neglect these emotions as they could lead to relapse. So keep reading below.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
You will be out of rehab on your own for the first few days, so it’s important to get used to a new routine. Instead of trying to ignore your feelings, take them seriously and acknowledge them. For example, you might cry easily after being discharged from a drug program or pass out when you’re close to relapsing because of the stress caused by those urges. These feelings are part of your drug addiction, but they can be worked on with proper counselling. Don’t try to pretend you’re okay; instead, admit to yourself that you’ve got some things to work out.
Stay Busy
Don’t let unnecessary habits take over your life. For instance, make sure you’re getting plenty of rest (especially if you’ve been waking up in the middle of the night for a fix) and exercising regularly. Remember that you are far more likely to become addicted to drugs again if you allow your life to become boring. If you don’t have a job lined up, then try volunteering or doing some research into other jobs.
Focus On Your Appearance
It’s easy to let yourself go when you’re not taking care of your body. So take a shower regularly and comb your hair. Pay attention to your hygiene and dress nicely. It doesn’t have to be a suit and tie, but don’t stop trying just because you’re no longer in rehab.
Learn How To Deal With Cravings
When you’re dealing with cravings, it can be hard not to reach for the next best thing. But try to learn how to deal with these feelings on your own. For example, going for a walk or doing something fun will help you get past that urge. And if you do slip up and relapse, then remember that you can always enrol in rehab again.
Get Professional Help
If you feel like your emotions are getting the best of you, then consider seeing a professional counsellor or psychiatrist help you through. Going to a support group is also a good idea. Just make sure you don’t take things too seriously. The most important thing about recovering from addiction is having fun.
Make New Friends
Although you might be feeling lonely, it’s important to try meeting new people and having new experiences. Having friends around will provide you with a positive outlet and help keep your mind off the negatives.
Remember That You’re No Different Than Anyone Else
Many people in recovery feel different from everyone else. But that’s not true: you have a disease, but you’re still the same person you’ve always been. Some things in life will be different now, but it’s important to remember that this doesn’t change who you are. So don’t get down on yourself.
Keep In Touch With Friends From Rehab
Even if you weren’t close to the other patients when you were in rehab, keep in touch with them after you get out. Your friends will remind you what life was like before addiction so that you can try to make up for those lost years after your stay at a drug program. After all, your peers will always be able to relate to you on a personal level. If they are going through recovery as well, then they can also provide you with a much-needed support system.
Avoid Triggering Situations
You might feel like going out partying or hanging out with old friends right after leaving rehab. While that certainly sounds tempting, don’t give in to those urges. Doing so will only make it harder for you to stay sober later. Take it easy for the first week or so, focusing on getting used to life on your own and not pushing yourself too hard.
Set Boundaries
When a craving takes over, you might want to drink or use drugs. But take a deep breath and ask yourself what you want. Don’t give in to your impulses because this can lead to relapse. Try setting boundaries for yourself, especially when you feel like the urge is getting unbearable.
Conclusion
The first few days out of rehab can be a rough road getting back on your feet. But don’t worry too much about these feelings; they’re likely to go away over time.
Contact us today for more information about drug rehab programs or to get help finding a rehab centre that’s right for you. Call us at 844-639-8371.