Rehabilitation is an important part of recovery for those fighting addiction. However, what happens if the rehab doesn’t work this time? Many programs are available to help you get back on track and stay sober once again! In this blog post, we will discuss how to deal with setbacks in your journey towards sobriety.
Understand that Staying Sober is a Journey
The first step to understanding how to deal with setbacks in sobriety is to realize that staying sober is more than just making it through rehab. Addiction is a chronic disease, which means it can return at any time. Sobriety requires constant vigilance, and despite the strides, you may make in your recovery process, there will likely be times when you feel like you are slipping.
These feelings are normal; however, it’s important not to give up! The journey towards sobriety should not be thought of as an event or episode that lasts only for the length of time spent in rehabilitation. It takes hard work and dedication throughout all stages of life- everybody slips up sometimes.
Identify Triggers
While you may not be able to avoid every trigger that causes a craving for drugs or alcohol, identifying these triggers can help keep yourself healthy and sober. By knowing what your triggers are, you can be prepared before they occur and take steps to avoid them.
Reach Out When You Need Help
If you find yourself slipping up with substance abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out for the support of others. There is no such thing as too late- if you slip up one week into your sobriety journey, then all that means is that it’s time to get back on track by reaching out! Talk about it openly with family and friends, ask for assistance when needed and set some ground rules for yourself to avoid triggers.
Seek Professional Help
There will be times when you feel like you just can’t do it on your own- and that’s okay! Seeking professional help is nothing to be ashamed of and can be an incredibly beneficial step in your sobriety journey. Professionals can provide guidance, support and resources when you need them most.
Don’t Give Up
The last and most important step in dealing with setbacks in sobriety is never to give up. Addiction is a chronic disease that requires vigilance throughout all stages of life. There are bound to be bumps in the road, but don’t let them get you down! Stay positive, take it one day at a time and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. This will help you stay on track and achieve long-term sobriety.
Get Back on Track with a New Rehab Program
If rehab doesn’t work this time, it’s time to get back on track by seeking out another program. There are tons of options available to accommodate your specific needs and help you stay sober for good! When finding a new treatment center, look for answers to these questions:
What is the primary drug-treated? How long is the average stay? For how many days per week/month/year is the patient engaged in therapy or educational sessions? What types of therapeutic approaches are used? What kinds of activities do patients partake in (i.e., yoga, art therapy)? These questions will help guide you towards choosing the best facility and type of care that works for you.
Know Your Options
There are many different programs available to you to accommodate your specific needs and help you get back on track towards sobriety!
Below are some of the most common types of rehab programs:
Standard Rehab Programs: Intended for patients who have successfully completed an inpatient program or detox, these 4-6 week programs provide care for individuals who need long term treatment after detoxing.
Extended Care Rehab Programs: For individuals who did not complete a standard rehab program, extended care is another option. These six to twelve-month programs offer transitional housing options in addition to individual therapy sessions and group activities.
Celebrate Sobriety Milestones
There is no better way to celebrate your sobriety journey than by marking your milestones! Each milestone should be celebrated in a meaningful way, whether with a special dinner with friends and family or a weekend getaway. Marking these achievements will help you stay motivated on your road to long-term sobriety.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Don’t be afraid to call upon friends, family or even professionals when needed! These individuals can help you get back on track if you have trouble staying sober on your own. Additionally, there is no shame in asking for help- it takes bravery and courage to admit that you need support during this time. If all else fails, there are helplines available nationwide every day of the week, 24/7 if you feel like you might relapse or need someone to talk to about how you feel.
Relapse is hard but not impossible- by seeking treatment and support, when necessary, sobriety is achievable for anyone willing to work towards it. Has rehab failed to work for you? Do you need help staying sober? Call our 24/7 hotline today at 844-639-8371 to speak with an addiction specialist that can get your life back on track.