Many people who go into drug and alcohol rehab have difficulty coping with their new lifestyle. They must learn new coping mechanisms and develop a supportive network of peers.
However, these difficulties can be overcome by focusing on the positive aspects of sobriety and learning how to deal with challenges.
Boredom
Boredom can be one of the most frustrating challenges for many recovering addicts. During the earliest stages of recovery, boredom can be a significant trigger that could lead to relapse.
Traditional addiction treatment programs often try to keep their clients busy with activities. However, this may only serve to exacerbate the problem of boredom further.
Instead, it is crucial to find healthy ways of dealing with this issue.
For example, finding new hobbies and interests can be a great way to combat boredom. It can also help build relationships with people with similar interests and experiences.
Trying new things is essential for anyone who has ever struggled with addiction. But it is especially vital for those in recovery from substance abuse.
Relapse
Relapse can be challenging to cope with, especially if you have been sober for several years or a lifetime. It can seem overwhelming and lead to feelings of shame and self-pity.
In addition to therapy and support from family and friends, relapse can be prevented or overcome by making a relapse prevention plan. These plans help individuals identify emotional or situational triggers that can cause them to use and develop strategies for avoiding them in the future.
For example, people can learn to quickly substitute thoughts and activities that have less of a harmful effect on their health. They can also develop relapse prevention strategies that interrupt temptation or cravings before they start.
Anxiety
One of the biggest challenges for many people who come to drug and alcohol rehab is overcoming anxiety. While it’s normal to feel anxious sometimes, having anxiety during recovery is risky because it can trigger a relapse.
The good news is that anxiety can be managed during drug and alcohol recovery. Focusing on suitable self-care activities like getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water, and minimizing stress can significantly impact your feelings. Click here for more information on anxiety management techniques.
Medications are also helpful when it comes to coping with anxiety. SSRIs, for example, help reduce stress symptoms by increasing serotonin levels in your brain. These drugs are often prescribed in conjunction with psychosocial and behavioral therapy.
Depression
Depression is a common complication for those in addiction recovery. During early sobriety, the user’s brain begins to adjust to a new abstinent equilibrium, which can trigger feelings of depression.
Fortunately, treatment for depression in drug and alcohol rehab can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and increase your chances of long-term sobriety. You can work with a therapist during counseling sessions to guide you through your recovery.
You can also participate in group therapy. In this type of therapy, you can learn from others who have experienced similar challenges to yours and make vital connections. These connections can give you strong support and understanding while you work to overcome depression during your recovery.
Family Issues
In many cases, the family members of a loved one with a substance use disorder experience problems that are often difficult to cope with. These issues can include emotional distress, anger, a sense of helplessness, guilt, or shame.
Rehab centers usually offer family counseling as a part of their treatment plans to educate and support families of addicts. These sessions may focus on learning about addiction and how it impacts the entire family. They may involve group therapy with the client’s family members coming together to share experiences.
Finding sober friends and building a social network that supports your sobriety is vital. Also, it is helpful to set up a new way of living that supports your recovery.
