If you want a complete recovery from substance abuse after inpatient treatment, you must stay in a sober living home. Although an option in the recovery process, it can be an asset for you. It will help you establish healthy habits in a substance-free environment. Moreover, you will live in a structured and safe environment with supportive peers.
But the real challenge comes when you have to leave the sober living home and return to your everyday society. It can also be a bit scary as you may not be able to maintain sobriety in the real world without the formal structure of a sober home.
However, we have five tips for you that will help you maintain sobriety after leaving a sober living home.
Continue attending Therapy Sessions
People think addiction counseling and therapy sessions are made only for severe addicts or those starting recovery. But contrary to this belief, these sessions are for everyone. Those on the recovery path and those who have returned to society after leaving a sober home must continue attending therapy sessions. Acting as a continuum of care, these will provide you with a safe place to talk about how you manage triggers and cope with stresses.
Stick to a Routine
When you were a resident of a sober living home, you had to follow a routine every day. You had to get up at a particular time in the morning, exercise, and eat on time. If you continue this similar routine in your everyday life, it will help you maintain a consistent life. Moreover, you can set up the timings according to your preferences so that committing to these gets easy for you.
Involve in Fun Activities
Sitting idly and getting bored is one of the causes of relapsing. Don’t do that. Just keep yourself busy with various activities that you enjoy. Relaxing after you get tired after attending school, college, or work is different. Include activities that support your recovery, such as therapy or attending support group meetings. You can also try hobbies like gyming, dancing, or joining yoga classes.
Create a Support Network
After leaving a sober home, ensure to have only sober people around you. Such a network of people will understand your struggles and help you stay on track. Your family members and friends will always support and encourage your sobriety.
Build up a Relapse Prevention Plan
Remember that when you return to society after living in a sober home, there will be various triggers urging you to do drugs or alcohol. Therefore, you must develop a plan for responding to such urges. Identify triggers and high-risk situations, and have the planning to avoid or manage them. Also, know who to contact for support and help in case of a relapse.
The professional team at Surf City Recovery is always there to help you at any point in your addiction recovery. We have professional counselors and therapists to help you fight triggers and stresses. If you need any help, we are just a call away.
