What to Do After Rehab
So, you have completed your rehabilitation program for a substance addiction, and you’re ready to embrace sobriety out in the big, wide world. Don’t be alarmed if you’re scared at first—or even if you’re still scared months later.
You’ve got a long road ahead of you, but it is incomparably worth all of the effort to enjoy a healthier, clearer and fuller life. If you’ve just finished your rehabilitation program and you’re heading back into the real world, you may be wondering what’s next.
In order to help you succeed and make the most of your newfound sobriety, consider the following suggestions to figure out what to do after rehab.
Establish Your Circle
It won’t take you long to recognize who will be supportive of your journey, and who will be more harmful than helpful. There is no problem with shrinking your social circle when cravings may be high; the right people will remind you of how far you’ve come, and work diligently to keep any potential triggers far from your senses.
Maintain Your Follow-Ups
Even if you feel like you’ve got total control of your temptations, that doesn’t mean you should stop going to follow-ups or meetings. These systems are in place for a reason, and you may regret cancelling them after the fact.
Follow-ups are ideal for all kinds of things, including goal-setting, talking through problems unconnected to substance and strengthening present skills. There is no reason to feel like you’re not progressing just because you are still attending meetings; these are smart toold to keep you on track.
Celebrate
Sobriety is a long journey, and each day should be filled with little achievements and celebrations to keep you focused. Of course, instead of celebrating with drinks or drugs, you’ll be having small celebrations like going for a hike or trying out the bakery down the street.
Surprisingly, there are all kinds of rewarding ways to treat yourself that have nothing to do with substance use. Meet a friend for an art class or plant something you love in your garden—the options are endless to celebrate your ongoing sobriety.
