Once you’ve completed rehab, you’re faced with yet another challenge: staying sober as you return to “the real world.” Having more struggles to contend with can be disheartening, but you aren’t alone. There are countless resources and other opportunities (like therapy and finding solace in your church) available to help you through this. You’ve come so far already and have many accomplishments still to celebrate—and these tips can help.
Find a professional to talk to.
Getting professional help and finding the right therapist to help you navigate your mental health is critical, especially when you’re in a fragile state of mind and are dealing with recovery. It can be hard to do it alone, which is why finding a NYC therapist is strongly advised. Therapy of NYC offers online therapy, so you can talk to a professional from the comfort and safety of your home. Treatments are data-driven, you will be partnered with a therapist who is trained to help you with your specific needs, and you are given continuous guidance, so it truly feels like you have someone by your side at all times.
Be aware and be prepared.
Being aware of common relapse triggers is important, as is recognizing those who might affect you personally. Talk to a professional about how to handle these challenging moments, as well as any conditions like post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), and seek help if needed. By knowing the signs and having a plan in place before these issues arise, you can minimize their impact and make your path to long-term sobriety one with less struggle.
Cultivate positivity.
Two of the most impactful positive forces in your life will be people and activities. After rehab, you’ll likely find yourself needing to create new relationships or build new ones—make sure that they are the kinds of people you want to be around, who’ll support you in your continued sobriety. The same is true of the activities you partake in. Positive activities like physical fitness and sports, crafts and DIY, or religious functions can all help you to focus on the good in the new life you’re building. Better yet, you can often build relationships with others who are interested in the same hobbies or the same groups.
Consider a financial incentive.
As you work on rebuilding this new life, you won’t be spending money on your previous addictions. If financial issues are hanging over you, put in the effort to make them more manageable—not only will it lessen your stress, but it will give you something productive to put your time, energy, and funds towards. You can also find increased motivation in putting money towards something that brings positivity into your life, like your new hobbies or interests. For example, if you’ve found solace in your local church, set aside a certain amount to tithe. Each time you fill your offering envelopes, you’ll be reminded of the good this has brought into your life. Take that moment to be grateful for the opportunity to use your money for good and in a healthy way.
Celebrate the wins.
Whether or not you’re involved in a program that marks the milestones in your journey, you can always celebrate your accomplishments on your own or with loved ones. Reward yourself (in healthy ways, of course) for all the work you’ve put in and for coming so far. This could be one of your financial incentives, like making a purchase for yourself or donating a certain amount to your church or other charity. Or, it could simply be enjoying a cupcake. However you commemorate your progress, remind yourself that you’re doing amazing as you take this one step at a time.
Staying sober post-rehab can be challenging, but it’s not an impossible task. With the help of your professional team, other support systems, and positive forces in your life, you can create the wonderful, sober life you’ve dreamed of.
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