Find Recovery Editorial Team, Author at Find Recovery

I Relapsed… Now What?

Giving into a drug craving can feel like the end of the world but it’s important to recognize that relapse is not a failure, but rather a natural part of the addiction recovery journey. Despite what outdated misconceptions might have you believe, addiction is not a lack of willpower but a chronic condition — and just like any other chronic illness, setbacks can occur. Here are 4 things to do to get back on track after an addiction relapse.

How to Bounce Back After Relapse

1. Don’t beat yourself up

In life, we often pressure ourselves to act a certain way or achieve certain goals. This is especially true for people in recovery who tend to hold themselves to high expectations after going through rehab. But recovery isn’t a straight line; it’s a path with plenty of zigs and zags. After a setback like relapsing, the disappointment can hit hard and leave someone feeling incredibly discouraged.

The first thing to do after the relapse happens is to fight the urge to beat yourself up over the mistake. Life continues after relapse and you can continue your course. Your progress up to this point has not been for nothing.

It can also be comforting to tap your support network. Not only can it help you work through your feelings but also provides practical support like doing dishes, babysitting, or giving rides while you get back on track.

2. Think about what triggered the relapse

While relapsing might seem like backtracking, it’s also a perfect opportunity to gain greater insight into your addiction triggers. Consider what you were doing when the urge hit you. Were you in a particular emotional state? Were you sleep-deprived, stressed, or hungry? Was it a certain situation that triggered this feeling? Where were you when the craving struck? Understanding these can empower you to develop effective coping strategies and enhance your chances of long-term success.

Some of the most common triggers are…

Stress and emotional turmoil
Exposure to drugs or drug paraphernalia
Peer pressure in social situations
Boredom; a lack of purpose
Unresolved trauma or mental health issues

3. Consider what you could have done differently

Once you’ve identified the who, what, where, and why of your relapse, it’s a good idea to consider alternative actions you could have taken instead. This is an important part of developing your coping strategies. The key to this is to be realistic. Instead of blanket promises that you’ll never do A or B thing again, it’s better to come up with contingencies in the (very real) likelihood that you won’t always have a willpower of steel. Use this to create a relapse prevention plan for the future and share it with your support system.

4. Prioritize self-care

Relapsing can make you feel like you’ve completely lost control. Take back some of your power by making a point to be extra mindful of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Things like proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices will not only help center you, emotionally but are important for healing the damage a relapse may have caused.

If you had a self-care schedule before, jump back in as if you’d never deviated. Your past progress hasn’t been for nothing and getting back into the swing of things is a great way to prove that to yourself. If you didn’t, now is a perfect time to make one.

5. Be honest with yourself

How in control do you feel over your drug addiction? If relapses — physical or mental — are becoming a more common occurrence, you might want to consider going back to rehab. You wouldn’t be the first. A study looking at nearly 40,000 American adults with substance abuse problems found that the average number of attempts it took for recovery was nearly 6 times. And depending on how long your relapse period lasted, there’s a strong likelihood you’ll need to detox again.

Even if you don’t think you need to go so far as going back to rehab, you’ll likely benefit from added support and accountability. One great place to find that are support groups and 12-step meetings. Here you can meet peers who understand what you’re going through and can offer practical advice and valuable insight.

Get Help for Addiction Relapse

Addiction relapse is a challenging and emotional experience but it does not have to define your recovery journey. By understanding the common triggers, recognizing the warning signs, and implementing effective strategies, you can take proactive steps to prevent relapse and maintain your hard-earned sobriety.

How to Prepare an “On-the-Go” Coping Kit

Navigating the path to sobriety requires resilience, support, and practical strategies to manage stress and triggers. One powerful tool in this journey is an on-the-go coping kit—a personalized collection of items and coping strategies for addiction recovery designed to provide immediate relief and support when you need it most.

Let’s explore the importance of a coping kit, what essential items to include, and how to customize and maintain it to suit your needs best.

Understanding the Need for a Coping Kit

Stress and the urge to revert to old habits can strike at any moment for people in recovery.

In these cases, having a portable coping kit becomes crucial to maintaining your sobriety when you feel most vulnerable, wherever you are. A coping kit provides immediate relief and support, helping you manage stress and stay on your recovery path.

Note that when we say “kit,” we don’t just refer to a physical bag of tools, although it can undoubtedly include small or portable items.

Essential Items for Your On-the-Go Coping Kit

A well-thought-out coping kit should include various tools that address different aspects of your well-being. Customization is essential, so you should take these recommendations as something other than the be-all and end-all of coping kits.

Start With Emotional Support Tools

Keeping affirmation cards around can be a lifesaver. Your cards could have messages like “I am strong” or “I am in control.” It may sound silly if you’ve never tried it, but writing them yourself and reading them aloud when stressed can be very powerful.

Additionally, keeping photos of loved ones in your coping kit can provide comfort and motivation. These images remind you of the support network that believes in your ability to stay sober. Remember that no one is an island.

Add Some Physical Items for Stress Relief

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best, and all many people need is a tactile activity that doesn’t require too much effort or concentration. If that’s how you cope with stress, there are all kinds of stress relief and stim toys you can look into.

A stress ball, for instance, is a simple yet powerful tool for managing anxiety. Squeezing can help release built-up tension, keep your hands occupied, and distract you from cravings.

Essential oils like lavender and chamomile can also be incredibly soothing. A few drops on your wrist or a quick inhale can promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Hunger and the irritability that comes with it are also significant triggers, which is why specialists emphasize the importance of eating well during recovery and beyond. Healthy snacks such as nuts or granola bars can help relieve hunger-induced stress and irritability while keeping your body nourished and balanced.

Other items you may want to add for stress release include:

Chewing Gum
Smooth stones, worry stones, or other objects with soothing textures
Portable puzzles like a Rubik’s cube
Fidget spinners
A stuffed animal
Silly putty

Consider Mindfulness and Relaxation Aids

A small guide or card with instructions for deep breathing exercises can be a lifesaver in stressful situations. These exercises can quickly lower your heart rate (reducing other physical symptoms of stress like sweating and racing thoughts) and bring much-needed calm during vulnerable bouts.

If you need more than just a few minutes of controlled breathing to calm down, having a meditation app on your phone allows you to engage in guided mindfulness sessions wherever you are. Some places may be more optimal than others, but these sessions can help you focus your mind and reduce anxiety.

Creating a calming or uplifting music playlist is another excellent stress management method. Music has a powerful effect on our emotions, and listening to your favorite tracks can provide an immediate mood boost and a welcome distraction from negative thoughts.

Other relaxation strategies you may want to consider include:

Meditation beads
Acupressure rings
An eye mask to limit sensory overload while calming down

Bring Some Healthy Distractions

Including a puzzle book in your coping kit, such as Sudoku or crossword puzzles, can provide a mental challenge that distracts you from stress and cravings. Engaging your brain in these activities can be both soothing and stimulating. Games like these are also available as mobile apps, which makes them even more accessible.

Similarly, carrying a book that you can quickly dive back into can offer a quick escape as a means to relax. Reading allows you to immerse yourself in another world, providing a break from your current worries.

How to Customize Your Coping Kit

Everyone’s journey to sobriety is unique, so your coping kit should be personalized to suit your specific needs and preferences.

However, you are the only person who can say what truly works. Reflect on what has helped you manage stress in the past and consider incorporating those elements into your kit. For example, if you find comfort in knitting or drawing, include small supplies for those activities.

Most importantly, learn to keep an open mind and have patience. Just because an activity worked for someone else but not you doesn’t mean it’s a waste of time. Experiment with various coping strategies and find out what works for you.

Maintaining and Updating Your Coping Kit

Coping mechanisms that worked a month, a year, or a decade ago might be less effective today. Like everyone else, you change over time, and those changes reflect on the recovery tools you employ during your journey to long-term sobriety.

Remember the shifting nature of recovery, and regularly review and update your coping kit to ensure it remains relevant. Remove items that no longer serve you and add new ones that align with your evolving needs and interests.

Remember, the journey to sobriety is long and changes over time. However, having the right tools at your fingertips can make all the difference in maintaining your progress and achieving lasting recovery.

How to Avoid Rehab Scams

Take care when choosing a drug rehab facility. Not only are there thousands upon thousands of options out there with different programs, specialties, care levels, and price points to choose from but also unscrupulous people out there who prey on people in vulnerable positions and looking for help.

Rehab scams have become an unfortunate reality, leaving people financially exploited and with compromised care. Prevent yourself from becoming a victim of a rehab scam by learning what red flags to look for when choosing a drug rehabilitation program.

Most Common Types of Rehab Scams

Rehab scams come in various forms, ranging from the subtle to the outlandish. Here are some of the most common operations:

Patient referral schemes. By far, one of the most common types of rehab scams is an arrangement where a person receives a kickback for referring rehab patients, a practice known as patient brokering.

Their networks can be extensive and include a pipeline from treatment centers to sober living facilities. Not only are patients misled by people who don’t have their best interests at heart, but often put people in predatory situations that trap people in a cycle of exploitation.

Sober living homes masquerading as treatment facilities. Facilities may claim to provide comprehensive addiction treatment, but in reality, offer little more than substandard housing and minimal support services, if any.

Fraudulent insurance billing practices. Rehab facilities may engage in deceptive billing practices to collect more money from insurance companies. This may include upcoding, unbundling, and billing for services not rendered or involve patients being held at facilities longer than is necessary, or recommending treatments a patient does not need.

Bait-and-switch tactics. A rehab facility may advertise one level of care but then pressure patients to enroll in a more expensive (but inappropriate)program once they arrive. In some cases, scammers may promise perks like free travel or healthcare to get someone in the door, but eventually stop paying insurance premiums so patients must leave the facility and end up stranded.

The consequences of these rehab scams can vary, leaving some patients as the unwitting vehicles of fraud who are none-the-wiser while resulting in others being financially and often emotionally devastated. As terrifying as these risks may seem, there are some tell-tale signs of a rehab scam that make them easy to spot once you know what to look for.

4 Signs of a Rehab Scam

Asking about insurance first and your health second

Paying for rehab is a concern that’s top of mind for most people, so it’s not unusual for admission staff to ask you about your health insurance coverage at some point in the conversation. However, if that’s their first question or they refuse to give you additional information beforehand, that’s a red flag that could indicate you’re dealing with a patient broker and not someone who is prioritizing your health and well-being.

Offering to pay for travel or other expenses

A common tactic used to lure patients to out-of-state drug rehab facilities by patient brokers is to insist that the rehab or insurance company will cover travel costs. Legit drug rehabs might help you make travel arrangements but rarely (if ever) will they pay for it themselves — especially if pricey airfare and hotel accommodations are involved.

Lots of guarantees or promises

All scammers and patient brokers care about is getting you in the door and they’ll often make outlandish claims to convince you to take the leap. Reputable drug rehabs would never claim to have a 100% success rate or guarantee being “cured” within a certain timeframe. They understand that addiction is a complex condition of both the mind and body and can’t be resolved in a mere month. If you feel like a program or facility is too good to be true, it probably is.

Vague or unclear services and programs

Another sign of a drug rehab scam is a lack of details about things like the facility, the treatment program, or the staff. They may change the topic, or try to gloss over your question when you try to ask for specifics. If they can’t provide specific information, run.

Frequently Asked Questions to Avoid Being Scammed

What is the facility’s treatment approach and how is it tailored to individual needs?
What qualifications and experience do the staff members have?
What is the facility’s success rate in terms of long-term recovery outcomes?
How does the facility handle emergencies or unexpected situations?
What is the facility’s policy on visitation, communication, and family involvement?
What types of aftercare and support services are provided upon completion of the program?

Another reliable way to find out how to tell a legit rehab from a fake one is to talk to others who have already gone to rehab. Your local AA or NA meeting group will likely have people who would be willing to share their experience and provide invaluable real-world insight you can apply when talking to a facility’s admissions team. Find an AA meeting near you today.

A Guide to Finding the Right Treatment Center

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are challenging conditions that involve many factors, requiring professional drug rehabilitation and a strong support network to manage over time. That’s why choosing the right treatment center is a critical step towards recovery.

However, with so many options and treatment modalities, it can take time to decide on the right treatment center for you. This guide will clarify the factors to consider when selecting a treatment center that best suits your needs and goals.

Assessing Your Needs and Goals

Before beginning your search for a treatment center, it’s crucial to assess your specific needs and goals, as all cases of addiction are unique.

You could start by going to a primary care doctor and explaining your situation, the severity of your, how it’s affecting your life, and other essential information. They may refer you to an addiction specialist, typically a therapist with experience treating people with addiction.

Some of the factors they will consider when helping you assess your needs are the following:

The substances you’ve consumed and for how long.
Whether you have a stable place to live, means of transportation, or resources to support yourself.
The life experiences that played a role in your substance use (social circles, family history of drug use, etc.)
Any underlying mental or physical health issues such as cardiovascular illnesses or depression.
Your personal preferences for the location and amenities of the treatment center.

Based on these and other factors, a specialist can work with your doctor to develop a recovery plan tailored to your needs, such as the level of care that would benefit you the most.

Evaluating Treatment Center Options

Identifying your needs, determining the level of care, and finding the treatment center you need can be challenging, but there are some key points to remember. Consider the following factors when evaluating treatment centers.

Licenses and Accreditations

Look for centers licensed and accredited by reputable organizations, such as the Joint Commission or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Accreditations and licenses ensure that the facility meets high standards of care and professionalism.

Another good sign is if the facility is a Provider member of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP). NAATP providers must be licensed in the state(s) where they operate based on the types and levels of services they offer. A nationally recognized accrediting body must also accredit them.

Treatment Approaches

Look for centers that offer evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with FDA-approved medications for the substance(s) you use.

Staff Qualifications

Ensure that the center has qualified medical professionals and therapists who specialize in addiction treatment or co-occurring mental illnesses like anxiety and depression. Other specialists may include a nutritionist and a chemical dependency counselor.

Facilities and Amenities

Consider the center’s environment, facilities, and any additional amenities that may enhance your treatment experience. Some treatment centers feel and look like high-end hotels, while others provide just enough amenities to be comfortable and focus on recovery.

Additionally, some centers provide extra activities and services like detox and specialized therapy. The more extras the center offers, the more it costs, so you must balance your needs with the monetary cost of entering treatment with them.

Success Rates

Look for centers that provide data on their success rates and patient outcomes. Higher success rates and better outcomes are always reasonable but keep in mind that relapses are common in addiction, and it’s not necessarily entirely on the treatment center if a former patient relapses. Some research indicates that relapse rates can reach 50% in the 12 weeks after leaving the treatment facility, and many factors play into these statistics. Still, a treatment center with a good track record is reassuring.

Location

Your relationship with the facility’s location varies depending on whether you plan to attend an outpatient or inpatient facility. In inpatient treatment, some recommend that the facility should be far enough from home to feel like you’re in a new environment, as some believe this will help you get away from the familiar spaces where your addiction usually takes place.

Attending an outpatient facility near your home is much more convenient, especially if you maintain daily work and family life responsibilities.

Financial Considerations and Insurance Coverage

Cost is the most significant factor determining your chosen treatment center.

Inpatient treatment costs more as it involves a higher level of care, 24/7 monitoring, and access to multiple professionals. On the other hand, outpatient treatment provides less intense care and costs less.

Which one you choose depends on your needs and budget, so consider the following factors when exploring the financial aspects of addiction treatment:

Does the treatment center accept your insurance?
What are the out-of-pocket costs, if any?
Are there any financial assistance programs available?
Does your workplace allow you to take job-protected unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?

Even if you are in a dire financial situation, as many people with addiction are, you may be able to use free and state-funded treatment facilities. For example, you can use SAMHSA’s Directory of Single State Agencies (SSA) for Substance Abuse Services.

It provides contact information for treatment facilities across the state that can help you access addiction treatment. These facilities may provide anything from residential (inpatient) treatment to outpatient counseling.

Other payment options include Medicaid, Medicare, and Tricare. Some facilities may also offer payment plans and financing if you have to pay out of pocket.

Challenges During Drug Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation can be challenging, especially given how unique each treatment plan is, depending on your needs. As a result, it’s important to be aware of the potential adversities before deciding which treatment center is best for you.

These are some of the most common challenges people in addiction recovery face:

Withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the substance and severity of addiction, withdrawal symptoms can be severe and require medical supervision. Look for treatment centers that offer assisted detoxification if this is a concern.
Cravings and triggers. Learning to manage cravings and identify triggers is a crucial part of the recovery process. Treatment centers should teach you the coping skills you need to manage cravings and provide medication for this purpose, if necessary.
Co-occurring mental disorders. Mental illnesses and addiction often go hand in hand, with a significant number of people with SUD also facing depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. A treatment center should help you identify and treat co-occurring mental illnesses alongside addiction treatment.
Relapse. Everyone who receives addiction support faces the risk of relapse. Addiction treatment helps you develop the life skills and support network to change the negative habits that cause and perpetuate your addiction.
Boredom and lack of purpose. Many people find themselves aimless and bored during addiction, which can easily lead to relapse as a way to cope with negative feelings.

Making the Decision and Seeking Help

Once you have evaluated your options, it’s time to decide. Choose a treatment center that aligns with your needs, goals, and budget.

Choosing the right treatment center for your needs is a significant step toward recovery, so you must make this decision very carefully. It’s understandable if the stakes make you feel pressured, and that’s why it’s important to seek guidance from healthcare professionals, therapists, or addiction specialists as you explore your options.

Seek help. Explain your situation to specialists who can help narrow your needs and clarify your path.

How to Tell Your Loved Ones You’re Going to Rehab

Entering rehab is a courageous step. But sometimes, the most challenging part can be sharing your decision with loved ones. Their support is essential in the journey to recovery, providing a safe space during a vulnerable period in your life. So, it would be best for everyone involved to know you’re going to rehab and understand your reasons.

To help you navigate this crucial conversation, this post will guide you through the challenging process of sharing your decision with those closest to you.

Preparing to Talk to Your Loved Ones

A solid support system is essential to recovery, and telling your loved ones about your condition is the best way to get them to see your side and provide support. Consider confiding in these people:

Your partner, to maintain trust and transparency during a difficult time in both your lives.
Your children, to reassure them that the changes they will live during your rehab are ultimately for the best.
Other immediate family members are needed to establish transparency and potentially gain the support of others in your social circle.
Your closest friends, to be transparent and potentially gain support.
Your employer, to secure leave and make necessary adjustments in your responsibilities.

Inform Yourself About the Treatment

You should know at least the basics of the treatment you’ll receive during rehab and explain why you chose that specific treatment center or modality.

Here’s what you should know before talking to your loved ones:

The facility you’re going to be attending and all relevant contact information.
Whether the treatment will be inpatient or outpatient.
The general treatment process includes detox for withdrawal symptoms, psychotherapy, and medication.
What you expect to get out of treatment, such as coping skills and a greater understanding of the root cause of your addiction.
The estimated timeline for rehab.

Learning about these factors will help you understand the treatment you will receive and why it benefits you and the people around you. This understanding will give you everything you need to communicate your decision to your loved ones effectively.

Choosing the Right Time and Setting

Choosing the right time and setting for the conversation about your decision to go to rehab is crucial. It can significantly influence how your loved ones receive the message and the support they provide.

Choose the Timing

Since this is a difficult conversation, there’s no “perfect” time to have it with your loved ones.

However, it should generally be at a quiet time, in a private and comfortable setting, and when your loved ones are less likely to be stressed, rushed, or distracted by other commitments. This way, they will receive the news as calmly as possible and be in a better position to support you.

Make it a Face-to-Face Interaction

Meaningful conversations involving events that will influence your lives are better received in person. Face-to-face conversations are more personal and impactful. They also allow you to express your thoughts, feelings, and non-verbal cues, helping you convey your message and your reasons more effectively.

The Conversation

Once you’ve informed yourself of the process and chosen the right time to have this conversation, you should plan what you will communicate during the conversation.

Why You’re Going to Rehab

Addiction rehab is all about helping yourself build a base for long-term sobriety and wellness, so you should be honest and direct about your needs and how the process will benefit you.

Be open about how addiction is affecting your life and express the reasons that led you to decide to go to rehab. Be specific about your reasons: your health, to improve relationships, to regain control over your life, etc. This can help your loved ones see the positive intentions behind your choice.

How You’ll Get Better

Your recovery journey is unique, and so are the ways you expect rehab to improve your life and, by extension, the lives of your loved ones. However, many people go to rehab for similar reasons and expect similar results.

Since it’s such a significant factor in why you decided to go to rehab, you should express how you expect rehab to help you manage your addiction. If you’re unsure of what to share, you may want to start with some of the common ways rehab improves lives, including:

Physical and mental health improvements.
More emotional stability.
Improved trust and communication in your relationships.
Gaining coping skills that will help you maintain sobriety long-term.

Explaining how your life will improve after rehab will help your loved one understand why you’re going to rehab and make them more likely to support you.

The Role Treatment Centers Play in Rehab

Regardless of whether you’ll receive inpatient or outpatient treatment, you’ll likely go to a treatment center during rehab. Explaining what treatment centers are and what you’ll do in treatment centers during rehab will help your loved ones understand the process.

Explain that treatment centers have professionals who understand addiction and can provide the necessary support and tools for recovery. They often offer educational sessions for families, which can be a valuable resource for helping your loved ones better understand addiction and your unique recovery process.

Addressing Concerns and Questions

Regardless of how well you explain your reasons and the benefits of rehab to your loved ones, there will always be concerns, doubts, and questions. You should head into the conversation with an open mind and an empathetic approach to their concerns.

Some of the common questions you should be ready to answer include:

What will happen during the first few days of rehab?
What happens after detox?
Can I visit you while you’re in rehab?
How long will rehab take?
What can I do while you’re in rehab? How can I support you?
How should I prepare for your return?
What happens right after you leave rehab?

Questions vary depending on factors like how much they knew about your addiction beforehand, how severe your addiction is, the role they’ve played in enabling or supporting your addiction, and whether you’ll receive inpatient or outpatient rehab.

Ultimately, you understand your relationship with your loved ones better than anyone and should consider what unique questions they may ask.

Resources for Loved Ones of People with Addiction

Addiction recovery is a complex journey that everyone experiences uniquely because everyone’s addiction story is different.

To help people with addiction and their loved ones navigate these challenges, many organizations have resources and support groups that you may find very beneficial, such as:

SAMHSA’s resources for families coping with mental and substance use disorders.
SAMHSA’s guide to talking about mental or substance use disorder with family members.
Alcoholics Anonymous, the non-professional support group for alcoholism, pioneered the Twelve Steps recovery program.
Narcotics Anonymous is a non-professional support group for substance use disorder in general, not just alcoholism.
Al-Anon is a non-professional Twelve Step support group for loved ones of people with alcoholism.
Al-Ateen is a similar group of young people.
Nar-Anon is a similar group for addiction in general, not just alcoholism.
Adult Children of Alcoholics, a non-professional Twelve Step support group for people with parents who are or have been addicted to substances.

Navigating the rehab landscape can feel overwhelming. Approach these conversations with openness and empathy, acknowledging the situation’s complexity.

While the road ahead may have challenges, remember the strength and courage to seek help.

You’re not alone in this journey. There’s a wealth of knowledge and a community of people dedicated to helping both those struggling with addiction and those close to them. Reach out and embrace the support that’s there for you.

Post-Rehab Self Care Practices

You may have completed a drug rehab program, but your addiction recovery journey is far from over. Rehabilitation is a transformative journey that requires ongoing commitment and support. Prioritizing self-care is vital to maintaining your progress and empowering yourself to continue your new and healthier lifestyle. This means taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Here are 11 post-rehab self-care tips you can use to create a comprehensive self-care rerouting that strengthens your recovery and enhances your overall quality of life.

Creating a Post-Rehab Self-Care Routine

Practicing self-care in addiction recovery is essential for the recovery process. It helps maintain a healthy balance in life that improves well-being and reduces the risk of relapse. Self-care for recovering from addicts should prioritize reducing stress, managing triggers, building emotional resilience, and boosting self-esteem.

A great way to incorporate self-care and recovery is by establishing a routine. The predictability establishes a sense of control, while the repetition can be a source of grounding stability. Start by committing to a few self-care acts every day and building a routine around them (e.g. going for a 10-minute walk after dinner every night). A good post-rehab self-care routine must be realistic and sustainable (making unachievable goals will only serve to discourage you).

Physical Post-Rehab Self-Care Tips

Physical self-care is straightforward. These types of self-care tactics into three main categories: exercise, nutrition, and sleep.

- Get at least 15 minutes of exercise a day. Physical activity doesn’t have to be strenuous to be beneficial. Consider walking, yoga, or tai-chi, which are easy on the joints but still build strength and have heart and mood-boosting benefits. Exercise can also include activities that aren’t traditionally considered exercise such as gardening or dancing.
- Meal prep to make getting proper nutrition effortless. It’s common for people recovering from substance abuse to be malnourished or have other ailments (e.g. heart or liver issues) that could be worsened by junk food. Eating nutritious meals is especially important in the months immediately after recovery when the body is still in the early stages of repairing drug-induced organ and tissue damage. Cooking three meals a day can be time-consuming, so instead make large batches of meals that you can eat throughout the week.
- Get enough sleep. It’s recommended to get at least eight hours of sleep every night. It’s not only so you feel rested the next day, but sleep is when the body repairs itself at a cellular level, including our brains, something that does not occur when we’re awake.

Pay attention to personal hygiene. Each action is an act of self-care. Cleanliness is important, but so is showing up for yourself and making an effort. It’s something that those around you will notice as well.

Emotional Post-Rehab Self-Care Tips

Emotional self-care is crucial for managing the ups and downs that come with the recovery journey. It’s about giving yourself space to feel your emotions without criticizing yourself for what or why you feel a particular way and finding healthy ways to process negative feelings.

Practice mindfulness. Make a point of being kind to yourself, especially in the face of mistakes that backtrack your efforts. Try reciting positive affirmations or following guided meditations.
Journal. Writing down your thoughts is a powerful way to express yourself and to aid in the processing of emotions. In the privacy of paper, you might feel more comfortable talking about high and low moments of the day which can help prevent troublesome rumination on negative experiences.
Try a new hobby. Our brains love the thrill of a challenge or experiencing something completely new. Doing so causes the release of dopamine and improves brain plasticity.

Mental Post-Rehab Self-Care Tips

Caring for your mental health post-rehab will largely focus on managing stress and stress and stressors.

Set boundaries. Get comfortable saying ‘no’ to people and places that don’t align with your new sober values or that you feel could undermine your progress.
Spend time in nature. Humans are hardwired to feel better when immersed in nature, which has been shown to boost mood and reduce stress. If you don’t have access to green outdoor spaces, seeing the color green in the form of real or artificial house plants or even a green wall can be beneficial as well.
Celebrate achievements. Motivation is just as important during rehab as it is afterward. Keep yourself excited about your progress by setting realistic goals.
Get closer to your support network. Fostering a sense of community and belonging has been proven to lower relapse risk. Strengthen your social connections and make news as a great way to gain accountability and encouragement.

If you’re looking for more post-rehab self-care tips, connect with a local Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous group near you to hear how real people are coping with life after addiction.

Understanding Mental Health Awareness in the Journey of Recovery

In the realm of addiction recovery, mental health awareness plays a crucial step in the path to healing, helping people understand that their condition is multifaceted and, as a result, requires multidimensional treatment.

Mental Health Awareness Month has been held in May for over 70 years, reminding us how far we’ve come in these decades and how much better treatment has become. But there’s still work to do, and it is all essential to people undergoing addiction recovery journeys.

This journey often involves addressing not only the physical aspects of substance use disorders (SUD) but also the psychological and emotional components, so mental health awareness plays a crucial role in the process.

Let’s explore mental health awareness’s role in recovery and how we can positively impact those around us by spreading this awareness.

The Relationship Between Mental Health and Recovery

Dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorders, is identifying when patients experience both a mental illness and substance use disorder. Many individuals who develop SUDs are also diagnosed with mental disorders, and vice versa. A typical example is someone with depression and alcohol use disorder.

Studies have found that about half of those who experience a mental illness during their lives are also more likely to experience an SUD and vice versa. This relationship highlights the importance of dual diagnosis in treatment plans, as tailored approaches can significantly impact individuals’ recovery outcomes.

Effective treatment of co-occurring disorders requires understanding how these disorders interact and influence each other. All of this means that it’s critical to raise more awareness of the role mental health plays in the recovery process, as someone unaware of the extent of their condition will be less likely to manage and overcome it over the long term.

Educating people on how to recognize symptoms of mental disorders or substance dependency in themselves as well as others is a crucial step in executing early interventions.

Challenges in Identifying Mental Health Issues in Recovery

Despite how common dual diagnosis is, identifying mental health issues within the recovery process can be challenging. Common barriers, such as stigma and lack of awareness, can make them harder to spot, delaying effective interventions.

Moreover, the symptoms of substance use disorders and mental illnesses can overlap, complicating the process of identifying as different but related issues. For example, fatigue and changes in body weight are common symptoms of both substance use disorders and mental health conditions.

Additionally, individuals in recovery may be hesitant to acknowledge or seek help for mental health issues due to fear of judgment or the misconception that these issues are a sign of weakness. They may not be entirely honest or downplay their use of substances and alcohol out of shame or fear of repercussions, or they may not even realize that their habits are unhealthy at all.

By fostering an open dialogue and recognizing early signs, individuals can proactively address mental health concerns, enhancing their overall recovery experience.

The Role of Mental Health Awareness in Recovery

Mental Health Awareness Month offers individuals and families a platform to deepen their understanding and engage with the community.

By participating in awareness initiatives, participants grow a sense of solidarity and empathy, fostering a supportive environment conducive to recovery. Additionally, mental health awareness can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, encouraging more individuals to seek help and support when needed.

By promoting understanding and empathy for people with mental illness, addiction, or both, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those in recovery, enhancing their well-being and chances of positive outcomes.

Enhancing Mental Health Awareness and Support Together

As advocates for mental health awareness, we all play a vital role in enhancing community support and understanding. We can take a proactive approach and leverage available resources to collectively build a more inclusive and compassionate environment for those navigating the challenges of mental health and recovery.

Here’s how you can take action this Mental Health Awareness Month:

Participating in Mental Health Awareness Month events and other initiatives throughout the year
Educating yourself about mental health issues
Sharing what you’ve learned with friends and family
Participating in online awareness campaigns by posting shareable and personal stories
Promote safe spaces for honesty and vulnerability to help reduce stigma
Supporting initiatives that promote mental health and well-being or starting your own

By working together, we can break down barriers to accessing recovery, challenge stigma, and pave the way for a brighter, more empathetic future.

Mental Plays an Important Role in Addiction Recovery

Remember that you don’t have to go through the recovery journey alone. We can commit to wellness and resilience through mental health awareness and support. Reach out to your loved ones if they need help – even just a shoulder to cry on and space to share their story goes a long way.

And if you’re also experiencing mental illness or substance use, remember that there’s no shame in needing help. Speak with your doctor or someone you trust to find the best way to work through your condition at your own pace.

Find NA Meetings Near Me

If you have been struggling to overcome your narcotic or opioid addiction, Narcotics Anonymous can help. There are thousands of NA groups around the country providing a safe space for recovering addicts to share their stories and encourage one another. Meetings are free to attend and completely anonymous.

If the thought of attending a Narcotics Anonymous meeting makes you nervous – you’re not alone. It’s a feeling that nearly every first-time group member has felt. Nar Anon is a support group with people who are in your shoes or have been there before. It may take a few group sessions for you to feel comfortable, but this is perfectly normal.

Search Narcotics Anonymous Meetings by State

Join the millions who have found comfort and hope within these nonjudgemental communities and have successfully freed themselves from the struggles of addiction. Find local NA meetings by location, day of the week, and time. Looking for online NA meetings? Contact 866-801-6621 for additional information that may be helpful.

Choosing a NA Group

Feel free to attend several different NA group meetings until you find your perfect fit. Once you find an NA group where you feel comfortable, consider selecting it as your home group. This will be the place where you regularly attend meetings, participate in business matters, and even take on leadership roles.

Finding your NA home group is a crucial step in the journey to recovery that creates strong communities and positive relationships where peers hold one another accountable. Missed a meeting? Your home group will notice – and care. Choosing a Narcotics Anonymous group isn’t just a commitment to the other members or the organization itself, it is a commitment to your healing process.

What Are The 12 Steps of NA?

Similar to AA, Narcotics Anonymous is a 12-step program. It is meant to be followed in order as a journey of self-awareness and healing. It is important to note that although several of the 12 NA steps mention “God” NA is not affiliated with any particular religion and that all people – religious or otherwise – are welcome. There are secular 12-step programs available with modified 12-step programs for the non-religious individual.

We admitted that we were powerless over our addiction; that our lives had become unmanageable.
We came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
We made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
We admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
We were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
We humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
We made a list of all the persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.
We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when doing so would injure them or others.
We continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to addicts and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

Get Clean Today

Humans are social creatures and the power of a supportive community should not be underestimated. A study has shown regular 12-step meeting attendance makes individuals 4-8 times more likely to achieve sobriety. Overcoming addiction by yourself can be an uphill battle but Narcotics Anonymous provides a safe space for you to share that burden. Find a local NA meeting today to find others like you and, most importantly, find freedom from your addiction.

Embracing the Three C’s of Al-Anon: A Guide for Loved Ones

In the challenging journey of loving someone struggling with substance use disorders (SUDs), understanding and internalizing the three Cs of Al-Anon can be profoundly transformative. Al-Anon focuses on these three principles:

We didn’t cause it
We can’t control it
We can’t cure it

The three Cs form the foundation of Al-Anon’s approach to supporting friends and families of individuals with SUDs. By embracing these truths, loved ones can find a path to greater peace, acceptance, and healthier relationships without misplaced guilt. Let’s explore the three Cs and how to implement them as you support a loved one with an SUD.

The First C: We Didn’t Cause It

One of the most crucial realizations of people in Al-Anon is understanding that they are not responsible for causing their loved one’s illness. Shame, guilt, and self-blame are common feelings for those in this situation, as it is challenging to face the fact their love and support are not always enough to improve the situation.

Trying to rationalize the issue usually leads to misplaced blame, as friends and relatives of those dealing with SUDs come to think that it is somehow their fault.

In this way, Al-Anon’s 12 steps (nearly identical to Alcoholics Anonymous’s 12 steps) offer a roadmap for accepting this truth by emphasizing personal responsibility without shouldering unwarranted blame.

At meetings, Al‑Anon members share what they’ve learned by practicing these steps, with an emphasis on not blaming themselves for their loved one’s addiction.

The Second C: We Can’t Control It

The desire to control a loved one’s SUD is expected, driven by a desire to protect and help. However, this approach often leads to frustration and disappointment.

It’s disheartening to see a loved one struggle or refuse to accept help, and it can be challenging to understand that the situation is beyond our control. Accepting that would feel like giving up to some, but it isn’t.

Helping yourself before you help others is crucial. The second of Al-Anon’s three Cs teaches you to set healthy boundaries and ways to detach with love and sincerity.

Some of the methods Al-Anon members use to develop coping skills and establish healthy boundaries are:

Practicing self-care
Identifying and communicating the limits of what they’re capable and willing to do for loved ones
Learning from other Al-Anon members in meetings
Practicing mindfulness and mediation
Embracing daily gratitude practices
Prioritizing personal growth

These strategies help Al-Anon members support their loved ones without trying to control their lives and recovery journeys directly.

The Third C: We Can’t Cure It

SUD is a complex disease that cannot be cured through sheer willpower or love. Moreover, it does not imply a character flaw, weakness, or moral failing.

Understanding this can be a profound shift for families. Learning that loved ones cannot cure an SUD leads to internalizing that it is a process that requires education and lifestyle adjustments.

Realizing that recovery takes time and we can’t solve it for our loved ones can be intimidating; it is a necessary step toward a more realistic and supportive approach to recovery.

Al-Anon’s therapies and learning opportunities provide a community where individuals can share their experiences and find solace in knowing they are not alone in facing this challenge.

How Al-Anon Helps: The 12 Steps and Beyond

Al-Anon offers a structured program based on the 12 steps, providing a framework for personal growth and healing.

However, peer support is at the heart of Al-Anon’s effectiveness. Through meetings, individuals gain insights, coping skills, and support from others who have traveled similar paths.

It’s impossible to overstate the importance of a support network during this process. Just like your loved one needs help, so do you, and finding like-minded and kind people who understand your struggle is a crucial aspect of this.

Luckily, finding an Al-Anon meeting is simple if the organization has meetings near you. Their website has a Locations page with details about their 5,000+ meeting groups, but you can also use their Meeting Searcher to look for the group nearest to your home.

Al-Anon’s Three Cs Help Loved Ones Find Support and Learn Coping Skills

If you are struggling to cope with a loved one’s SUD, know that you are not alone. Al-Anon offers a path to understanding, healing, and finding peace amidst the chaos.

Take the first step by attending a meeting or reaching out for support. You deserve to find your serenity and well-being, regardless of your loved one’s recovery journey.

Joining Al-Anon can be the first step to developing healthier boundaries and understanding your role in your loved one’s life as they recover from SUD and beyond.

7 Jobs with Highest Addiction Rates

There are many professions linked to alcohol abuse and illicit drug use. The high stakes, long hours, erratic schedules, and exposure to traumatic experiences that many professionals experience lead some to consume alcohol or illegal drugs to cope with the stress.

High addiction rates in specific jobs are a well-known problem in the medical community, with many surveys exploring the reasons why some industries seem to have more problems with addiction than others.

These are some of the professions with the highest drug use among individuals in them.

1. Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals work long hours, experience the emotional toll of patient care every day, and have easy access to prescription medications, leading to a perfect storm that can contribute to higher risks of substance abuse and addiction.

As a result, healthcare professionals are not only not immune to the addictions they help overcome, but they are likely to experience them themselves. A 2015 SAMHSA survey shows that healthcare professionals had a 5.5% rate in the past year of substance use disorder, a 5.7% rate in the past month of illicit drug use, and a 4.4% rate in the past month of heavy alcohol use.

2. Law Enforcement and First Responders

Law enforcement officers and first responders such as police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services face daily stress from life-threatening situations, witnessing human suffering, and the responsibility of making split-second decisions. These high-pressure conditions can lead to post-traumatic stress, which may lead some to turn to substances as a coping mechanism.

A 2010 study of police officers in urban areas determined that male and female officers reported alcohol use levels considered to be “at-risk” by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. The rates were 11% for male and 16% for female officers.

3. Lawyers and Legal Professionals

Lawyers and legal professionals operate in high-stress conditions, facing intense pressure to meet deadlines, manage long work hours, and navigate the emotional weight of human suffering in their cases. This environment can foster high levels of anxiety and depression, leading some to self-medicate with substances.

Many legal professionals start abusing substances during their studies. Around 43% of law students have binge drinking in the past two weeks, according to a 2015 study, with about 25% of law students qualifying for alcohol use disorder. Additionally, a Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation survey found that 36% of legal professionals qualify for alcohol use disorder.

These problems are compounded by a reluctance to seek help due to believing that seeking addiction treatment would reduce their chances of passing the bar.

4. Finance and Banking Professionals

Finance and banking professionals work under high stress, for long hours, and face intense pressure to perform. The constant push for success and the high-stakes nature of their work can contribute to significant stress and anxiety that some cope with using substances.

The 2015 SAMHSA survey reveals that professionals in finance and insurance exhibit a 9.4% rate of past-year substance use disorder, a 7.4% rate of past month illicit drug use, and a 7.4% rate of past month heavy alcohol use.

5. Hospitality Industry Workers

Hospitality industry workers experience irregular hours, often for low pay, while managing high customer service demands. All of this takes place in a workplace culture that sometimes normalizes substance use, increasing stress and the risk of addiction.

The SAMHSA survey shows that this sector has some of the highest rates of drug abuse among the surveyed industries, with a 19.1% prevalence of past month illicit drug use, a 16.9% rate of past year substance use disorder, and an 11.8% rate of past month heavy alcohol use.

6. Arts and Entertainment Professionals

Professionals in the arts and entertainment industries also face erratic schedules, inconsistent income due to the nature of entertainment work, and the pressure to perform to a high level.

Additionally, entertainment workers also have to network and socialize extensively to get ahead, leading to situations where alcohol and drugs can be expected, and there can be a lot of pressure to conform by consuming them with others. Finally, successful artists and entertainers may have to deal with the mental stress of being constantly scrutinized in the public eye.

The 2015 SAMHSA survey data shows that people in these fields reported a 13.7% rate of past month illicit drug use rate, an 11.5% rate of past month heavy alcohol use, and a 12.9% rate of past year substance use disorder rate.

7. Veterans and Military Personnel

Veterans and military personnel have historically endured intense and traumatic experiences during service that can lead to mental health issues like PTSD, which may lead to substance use as a coping mechanism. The culture of stoicism and self-reliance in the military can also deter seeking help, potentially leading to self-medication.

For veterans and military personnel, alcohol is the primary substance of abuse, with 65% of veterans who enter treatment centers experiencing alcoholism. Opioid use is also a concern, with around 13% of veterans who receive opioids for pain developing an opioid use disorder.

Additionally, veterans have a higher risk of abusing prescription drugs than the general population, with around 23% of veterans who received prescription opioids abusing them.

Resources and Support for Professionals with Addiction

Like any person facing addiction, professionals require multifaceted approaches that involve clinical treatment and medications, if necessary, coupled with peer support and self-care practices.

If you need more time to be ready to take the first step toward treatment, talking about it with someone trained to speak with people in your situation may be helpful. SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) offers a confidential, free, 24/7, 365-day-a-year service, providing information in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing mental or substance use disorders.

This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.

Additionally, here are some other resources about addiction and health that professionals may find helpful:

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): A government agency that shares knowledge about the consequences of alcohol and alcoholism, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment options.
MedlinePlus: A treasure trove of health information, including substance use disorders.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): This health agency under the Department of Health and Human Services provides statistics and raises awareness about addiction and many other health-related topics.

It’s also important to consider the Department of Labor’s Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA or the Act), which provides employees with up to 12 weeks of job-protected unpaid leave under certain conditions. One such condition is a “serious health condition,” which may include an addiction.

Preventive Measures and Workplace Wellness Initiatives

Helping professionals in industries with high addiction rates may involve industry-specific support programs, raising awareness about the risks of substance use in the industry, and offering counseling and rehabilitation services.

Here are some potential strategies:

Establishing comprehensive wellness programs. Employers could develop wellness programs beyond physical health, including mental health and substance abuse resources. This can involve providing access to counseling services, mental health leave, and resources for stress management.
Implementing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). EAPs are workplace interventions designed to help employees resolve personal problems through confidential assessments, short-term counseling, and referrals for additional help.
Using flexible work arrangements when possible. Flexible work schedules can help employees maintain a better work-life balance, reducing stress and the potential for substance abuse.
Performing regular screening and health assessments. Regular health assessments that include mental health screenings can help identify issues early.
Training managers and supervisors. Training leaders to recognize the signs of substance abuse and mental health issues can help spot issues early and provide the preparation they need to intervene appropriately.

Addiction is a complicated condition that manifests uniquely for everyone and certain high-stress industries create conditions where addiction is more likely.

Additional factors like normalized drug use in the workplace, a culture of not sharing vulnerable feelings with peers, and the fear of losing your job if you enter rehab can increase the risk of addiction for many professionals.

With so many factors at play, solutions require individuals and organizations to collaborate in both detecting and treating substance abuse in the workplace. While taking the first step is a very daunting prospect for many, it’s crucial to find recovery at a personal level and promote a culture of wellness in industries with high addiction rates.