Rehab provides a supportive and comfortable environment for people dealing with substance abuse. All the tools and coping strategies are discussed to help patients stay sober. Yet, some people still relapse in recovery. The National Institute on Drug Abuse revealed that the relapse rate for people in recovery is between 40 and 60%.
Relapse is typical and doesn’t indicate that treatment has failed. It means that the current treatment should be modified or replaced. After undergoing rehab successfully, transitioning to normal life can bring up new challenges that may threaten your sober lifestyle. Fortunately, you can stay clean in recovery.
CFC Recovery is a relapse prevention program in New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more.
Recognizing Triggers that May Threaten Sobriety
Adjusting to regular living may be tough. You may be triggered by situations or habits that could revert you to your old lifestyle. Once in recovery, you must recognize addiction triggers to prevent a relapse. By avoiding these triggers, you can maintain sobriety. Below are common potential triggers that could threaten your sober life following rehab treatment;
- Old neighborhood
- Friends
- Family members
- Media
How to Stay Clean in Recovery
Below is how you can remain sober in recovery:
Live in the Present
You can’t alter your past, but you can control the present. Focus on the now and forgo the past; Try new things and live your best without drugs or alcohol.
Be Friends with Nature
Nature relieves us of pain, stress, and depression. Try spending more time in nature. Engage in activities, such as hiking and running, to create a deep connection with nature.
Go Artistic
You can draw, paint, sing, or play the guitar if you know how to. Getting creative or testing your artistic skills can be good for sobriety.
Forgive
Forgive yourself for the time you wasted on drugs and alcohol, and embrace your new self. Without this, you’ll be stuck in regrets, which are setbacks. Forgive yourself and make amends with your family and friends if needed.
Don’t be Afraid of Relapsing
The fear of something yet to happen could cause it to manifest. Instead of worrying about slipping back into addiction, focus on your recovery. When this destructive thinking pattern consumes you, try to meditate and be mindful. Use the grounding technique, also known as the 5-4-3-2-1 technique. This method allows you to focus on your five senses to stay in the present. It involves taking some deep breaths and identifying the five things you can see, the four things you can touch, the three things you can hear, the two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
Avoid Isolation
Loneliness is one of the biggest triggers of relapse. Keep yourself busy if you feel lonely. Spend time with family and friends who support your recovery.
Celebrate Yourself
Addiction can be hard on someone. Sometimes, you beat yourself up and feel life has moved past you. Now that you’re in recovery, you’ve been given another shot at life. So live it and don’t just exist. Treat yourself to a nice dinner or get yourself new clothes. Celebrate every milestone you accomplish in recovery. It will empower you to remain sober.
Be Active
Engaging the body and mind in productive activities can reduce cravings. One way to stay active is to exercise. Lift some weights or do some abs workouts.
Adopt a Pet
Pets can give you responsibilities and add more purpose to your life. Also, the unconditional love that pets provide can keep you going.
Volunteer
Doing community service and helping others in need give a sense of inner peace and fulfillment. Try helping a neighbor in need or feeding the destitute on the street.
Declutter Your Home
Remove anything that will remind you of using drugs or alcohol. Surround yourself with a supportive network. It could be your friends, family, or an online community. In addition, avoid places or things that can serve as a trigger.
Be Grateful
Every day, make a list of everything you’re grateful for. If you are stressed or experiencing a bad day, look at the good things you’ve done and be appreciated. Be grateful for the second chance life has given you.
Challenge Yourself
This is about creating goals. What do you want to be remembered for? What do you want to achieve in the next two, three years? The objectives mustn’t be long-term. You can create short-term goals and try to accomplish them. Remember, it’s all about taking small steps and progressing gradually.
Enroll in Aftercare Programs
Aftercare programs can help you maintain a sober life. Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous and SMART Recovery create a community where those in addiction recovery can share insights into their recovery and support one another. This can help individuals stay accountable.
Find Support in Recovery with CFC Recovery
If you or someone you know find it challenging to stay clean in recovery, seek medical help immediately. CFC Recovery can help you understand problems and answer questions relating to your sobriety. We can provide training and resources to help you cope with triggers. Call us at 1-833-300-HOPE for further assistance.
