Maintaining Sobriety After completing an outpatient program, many challenges we face when newly sober stem from mental health. The state of mental health can determine the likelihood of relapse.
What Does Sobriety Mean?
Sobriety is the state of being free from addiction to drugs or alcohol. It is a journey that requires commitment, discipline, and determination. Maintaining sobriety is a lifelong journey that requires continuous effort and support. It is not only about abstaining from drugs or alcohol. It’s also about making positive changes in one’s life and developing a healthy lifestyle.
After Outpatient Treatment vs. Inpatient Treatment-What’s the Difference?
Outpatient treatment and inpatient treatment are two different types of addiction treatment programs. Outpatient treatment for alcohol use disorders allows individuals to continue their daily activities while receiving therapy, counseling, and support.
On the other hand, inpatient treatment requires individuals to live at a treatment center while receiving intensive treatment and support. Both treatment types have advantages and disadvantages. The best option for an individual will depend on their specific needs and circumstances.
The Five Rules of Recovery
The Five Rules of Recovery are essential for building a robust long-term recovery solution. These rules provide a framework for individuals to change their lives, be honest with themselves, ask for help, practice self-care and stay committed to their recovery plan.
By following these rules, individuals can develop the discipline and determination necessary to maintain sobriety in the face of triggers and relapse warnings. They provide a structure to the recovery process and help individuals achieve the balance they need to maintain long-term sobriety. Each rule is essential and must be followed for the greatest chance of success in the recovery process.
Rule 1: Change Your Life
One of the most important rules of recovery is to change your life. This means developing a structured schedule, avoiding old routines and habits, and building new, healthy habits. It’s crucial to find new activities and hobbies and surround yourself with positive people who support your recovery.
This rule helps individuals create a new lifestyle incompatible with substance abuse. It also helps build a strong foundation for long-term recovery. Additionally, setting daily routines and sticking to them can be a powerful tool to help an individual stay on track.
Rule 2: Be Completely Honest With Yourself
Being completely honest with yourself is essential in recovery. Identifying your triggers, recognizing relapse warnings, and being honest with yourself about your progress is necessary. It’s also important to communicate honestly with your therapist or counselor and to seek help when needed. This honesty will help you in your recovery process and aid in the challenges of maintaining sobriety.
Additionally, being honest with oneself also means being honest about one’s feelings, thoughts, and emotions. This can help someone identify the underlying issues that led to substance abuse in the first place. Then they can work on resolving them.
Rule 3: Ask for Help
Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s important to build a support network of friends, family, and professionals who can help you recover. Joining a support group, seeking therapy or counseling, or working with a recovery coach are great ways to get the help you need.
12-Step programs are an excellent option for many people in recovery, as they provide a sense of community and support. Additionally, having a support system can give someone a sense of accountability. This can be a powerful tool for maintaining sobriety.
Rule 4: Practice Self Care
Practicing self-care is essential in recovery. Finding balance in your life, celebrating milestones, and learning about mindfulness is important. Self-care can include exercise, meditation, journaling, or reading.
Taking care of your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being is important to maintain long-term sobriety. Quality of life is crucial for long-term recovery. Additionally, self-care can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for relapse.
Rule 5: Don’t Bend the Rules
Recovery requires discipline and commitment. It’s essential to stick to your plan and not bend the rules. The risk of relapse is high when you start to bend the rules or make exceptions for yourself. It’s important to remember why you started on this journey and to stay focused on your goal of maintaining sobriety.
It may be hard sometimes, but a sober life’s rewards are worth it. Remember to celebrate each small victory and focus on your long-term recovery. Additionally, strict adherence to the rules can help an individual avoid temptations and situations that may trigger a relapse.
The Challenges of Maintaining Sobriety After Outpatient Treatment
Maintaining sobriety after outpatient treatment can be challenging, requiring ongoing effort and support. Having a plan to deal with triggers and relapse warnings is important. It’s also paramount to surround yourself with a support network of friends, family, and professionals. It’s also important to continue with therapy or counseling and to attend support groups or 12-Step programs. Practicing self-care and maintaining a balance in your life is also important.
What if a Relapse Happens?
If a relapse happens, it’s important to remember that it’s not a failure but a part of the recovery process. It’s essential to seek help immediately and communicate honestly with your therapist or counselor. Agape Treatment Center is here to help individuals struggling with alcohol use disorders. We offer a variety of treatment options, including inpatient and outpatient treatment.
Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping individuals achieve and maintain sobriety. With the proper support, individuals can overcome the challenges of maintaining sobriety and achieve a fulfilling life. Reach out to Agape today, speak to an admissions expert, and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Stephanie Catalano is an accomplished Clinical Director at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. With a Master of Social Work degree, LCSW license, and extensive training in Rapid Resolution Therapy under her belt, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her unique combination of education and experience allows her to provide exceptional care to clients and lead her team with confidence. Stephanie’s joy comes from witnessing the moments when her patients creatively connect the dots and bravely move toward reclaiming their power. Her purpose is to help individuals understand their past so they can create a future full of hope, growth, and success. Stephanie attributes a large portion of her success to the supportive culture and strong sense of community fostered by the Agape team.
