Staying On Track After Addiction Recovery

After you successfully complete an addiction recovery program, it's just the beginning of your sobriety journey. Outside of the facility, there are more temptations, which can lead to relapse. Plan for the temptations you may experience and give yourself the tools you'll need to overcome those temptations. Learn more about staying on track after addiction recovery. 

Common Challenges After Recovery

1. Guilt 

Many addicts experience guilt over their addiction and the things they did during their addiction. Some recovery patients will turn to substances to numb their guilt. 

2. Friends/Family Who Use 

Unfortunately, many addicts have addicts in their social circle. After recovery, these people may make it too easy for the recovery patient to find substances. Some "friends" will even use in front of or offer to share with the addict, creating a risky environment. 

3. Cravings

Ultimately, one of the hardest things to overcome is cravings. Many people in recovery note that the cravings never go away. Instead of trying to make them go away completely, it's important to learn how to manage the cravings. 

Ways to Stay on Track After Recovery

1. Reduce Access to Substances

If you allow drugs around you in recovery, it will create too great of a temptation. Do your best to avoid user hot spots. You'll also need to minimize communication with friends and family who abuse substances. 

You should also get rid of all paraphernalia. 

2. Focus on Something Positive

Distract your cravings by focusing on something else, such as work or art. If you work hard at your craft, you will not have time to use. As you continue to accomplish your goals, you'll likely find you feel more satisfaction from being productive than you ever did taking drugs.

3. Develop a Support System 

You don't have to go through recovery alone. You have people who will support you. Talk to friends and family to gain support from them. You may need to mend some relationships damaged by your behavior during your addiction, but the people who love you will forgive you in time. It will give you strength to know that you have people to call when you experience cravings or anxiety from the new sensations of being sober.

4. Continue Therapy 

You should continue to receive treatment after you complete an addiction recovery program. You can go to therapy or weekly meetings. Whatever your preference, keep up with your mental health during this transitional period of your life.

You took the first step by going to therapy. Keep up the good work, and you'll slowly grow into the person you want to be.