5 Tips for Rehab Newbies

November 5, 2020 - Addiction Treatment - 0 Comments

Are you a rehab newbie? Maybe you are still apprehensive about entering rehab because you are not sure what you should expect. All rehabs are not the same so the environment, the staff, treatment programs, and the rules will differ depending on the treatment facility you will admit yourself into. However, whatever rehab you choose, you can check out the tips below to help you make your stay more comfortable and hopefully, successful.

1. Have an open mind

When you enter an addiction treatment center, there will be programs and activities planned out for you. Usually, there will be a daily schedule and routine that you have to stick to. Some of the rules and activities might not be to your preference or you might not even believe that these things could actually help you out. Because of this, you might choose not to participate in these activities. This kind of attitude, however, will not help you in your recovery.

When you enter a rehab facility, you have to have an open mind. Welcome new learnings and try to absorb whatever you can. Remember that you’re in rehab because you need help. You then need to accept this help so you can have progress.

Addiction treatment centers like the Lighthouse have professional staff and addiction experts that have helped many people like you for many years. Instead of shutting out their methods, be open and give it a chance.

2. Don’t isolate yourself

A common mistake made by people who were rehab first-timers is isolating themselves during their stay. It is understandable if you want to keep to yourself and just stay alone especially if you are still struggling with the reality that you are inside rehab. You could be experiencing feelings of grief, anxiety, depression, denial, shame, and many more. You probably don’t want to mingle with anyone, especially people you don’t know.

However, when you isolate yourself, this does not help you in your treatment process. Know that even if you are inside rehab and away from your loved ones that does not mean that you’re all alone. The staff inside rehab are there to support you in your journey. They are not the enemy. They are there to help you in your recovery journey. It is also an opportunity for you to meet new friends and make new connections with your fellow residents who understand what you are going through.

3. Don’t hesitate to ask for help

As the cliché goes, “If you don’t ask, you don’t get”. So if you are having a hard time during a certain period or you feel that you cannot handle the pain any longer, ask for help. Don’t hesitate to tell the addiction treatment staff about your struggles or your difficulties. They are there to help you get over the toughest times while you are inside the facility.

4. Practice self-care

Self-care is a very important part of recovery. When you’re in rehab, your first priority is to take good care of yourself. Putting yourself first is not being selfish, instead, it’s how you’ll be able to dedicate more of your time and efforts towards different aspects of your life. Some self-care recommendations that you could do to feel better while in rehab include the following:

• Eat regular meals
• Schedule time for exercise and physical activities
• Meditate for at least 15 to 20 minutes a day
• Take warm baths or regular showers
• Sleep adequately
• Read motivational quotes to inspire you while in rehab
• Enjoy afternoon tea
• Listen to calming music

5. Know that recovery does not end in rehab

Rehab stays usually finish in 30 days and many rehab first-timers think that completing this 30-day period is the end-all, be-all. That is absolutely not the case. Just because you completed your rehab stay does not mean the work is done. Recovery is an ongoing process and you need to continuously work hard to maintain it.

After completing your treatment program inside rehab, you have to follow the recommended aftercare program. This program often includes going to regular recovery meetings and keeping in touch with your addiction specialist or sponsor. If your rehab has an alumni program, it would be great if you participate in this program as it is a great way to explore sober activities that you could enjoy while being with like-minded people.

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.

Contact Lighthouse Treatment Center today.