7 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Rehab
The notion of going to rehab can be a bit scary. You may be feeling disappointed that you require alcohol addiction treatment. You may be feeling the pull to go back to the drugs that you have been your crutch. Or, you may feel relief that help has finally arrived in your lap. But these feelings are only naturally intertwined with trepidation and anxiety. Knowing what to expect, however, is one of the best ways to get the most out of rehab. Check out these other tips designed to help you maximize your rehab experience and come out happier and healthier on the other side.
Accept the Help
The best thing you can do before going into rehab is to understand that the professionals that will be guiding you through the program want the best for you. They’re trained to provide you with a tried-and-true approach to addiction treatment. Accepting their help can make your time at treatment easier and increase your chances for success.
Be Present Throughout the Process
As we said before, addiction treatment can cause fear, especially if you haven’t tried therapy or treatment before. And it can be so easy to spend your time worrying about what you gave up to be there and what your life might be like when you are done. But these worries are just distractions. Allow yourself to be fully immersed in the treatment process. Let yourself build the tools you will need to rebuild your life, and we’re not just talking about a hammer and nails.
Be Open-Minded
Treatment centers have helped millions and millions of people with addiction come out clean, sober, healthier, and happier. And they can help you if you let them. Instead of setting it in your mind that you know how to help yourself, open your mind to the approaches and methods that they recommend to you. Not all of the tools you learn will help, but some will, provided you are open to trying them.
Practice Self-Care
Not every minute of every day will be accounted for during treatment. You’ll still have time for yourself. But rather than retreating to your room for a nap or to wallow away, do something that can help heal your mind and soul. Learn how to meditate or reflect on your feelings by writing in a daily journal. And get some exercise. All of these things make the body healthier and the mind, too (and it’s our mind that often gets us into trouble).
Embrace Your New Community
While in rehab, you’ll be bound to meet people going through something similar to you. Leaning on one another for support can be highly valuable in improving your chances of success. Further, your new community can help you establish a growth mindset that will help you stay healthy in the long run. So let yourself be consumed by the individuals around you, especially those that want a prosperous future like you.
Leave the Excess at Home
Whether you’re staying for a 10-day treatment program or longer, the chances are that you will want to bring some comfort from home. But stick to the basics and don’t bring more than the essentials. Pack the clothes you’ll need, your preferred toiletries, the jewelry you tend to wear every day, and perhaps a journal so that you can express your feelings each day. But leave the rest at home. Too much stuff can distract you, keeping your head out of the game. Rest assured that your favorite creature comforts will await you at home.
Ask Questions
To fully immerse yourself in the program, you must ask questions. And don’t worry about what you ask. Rest assured that your counselors, physicians, and the other residents have heard those questions (though the other residents might want the same answers as you). It is your right to understand the process, so never hesitate to ask a question if you are confused, need help, or aren’t sure why a particular approach is being taken. Asking questions is an excellent way to embrace your treatment.