The truth about the recovery process is that relapses are common. Addiction can be chronic for a lot of people. In order to manage your addiction once rehab is over, several lifestyle changes are suggested. Your treatment plan and lifestyle may continue to change through the months and years, too. If you’re wondering what to do once rehab has ended or you’re afraid that a relapse is right around the corner, consider these lifestyle changes.
Spend Time with Sober People
According to WebMD, if your friends prior to rehab were addicts, you’ll want to find sober friends to spend your time with. Going back to your old social circle can trigger you to start using again. Surrounding yourself with people who live the same sober life as you will help you stay on track. It’s important to have a support network of people who will help you reach your goals and live your life in a healthy way.
Commit to Getting Healthy
Once you’ve finished your stint at beach side rehab, you’ll need to take your health into your own hands. This is an ideal time to start exercising and eating better. Being sober means you’re healthier than you used to be, but it doesn’t mean you’re as healthy as you can get. Developing an exercise routine will not just improve your body and overall health, but it will also give you more confidence and help to clear your head. Eating healthy foods will positively affect everything from your appearance to your energy level.
Engage in New Activities
Before you got sober, many of your activities probably revolved around drinking or doing drugs. It’s time to find new ways to spend your time. You’ll need to keep both your mind and body busy so that you don’t fall into old ways. The good news is that you have a ton of time to fill with whatever you want, now that you’re not solely focused on your next fix. Try out new hobbies that you’ve always been interested in. Volunteer your time for a community organization. Go back to school or take night classes to advance your education. Find a type of exercise that you love and want to practice every day.
Help another Addict
It can be very helpful to provide support to another addict, particularly someone who has the same addiction you do. For example, if you’re a recovering alcoholic, you can provide support for a binge-drinker who is trying to get sober. You’ll be held accountable and want to stay sober so that you can continue to help them. You’ll also be reminded of how hard it was to get sober and how far you’ve come.
The most important thing about living your life after rehab is to be gentle with yourself. This process can take a long time. Go slow and steady, paying attention to how you feel and how you react to the new parts of your life.
