For those in recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol, returning to everyday life after treatment can be a challenge. Making this transition involves going from an inpatient treatment center where you may have had support 24/7 to a life where you might only attend meetings once or twice a week. To make this transition easier, there are a few things that you can do to help reinforce healthy coping skills and prevent relapse. These everyday changes for recovery might seem small, but they can make a big difference.
Everyday Changes for Recovery
During treatment, you’ll learn about how addiction has impacted your life and why it can be so difficult to remain sober. You’ll develop coping skills to help you during times of stress, and you’ll find a network of support for your journey. However, after treatment, preventing relapse is still a concern. Addiction is a disease, and for many, managing this disease is a lifelong process. After completing treatment, or even while in treatment, a few everyday changes you can make to help you rebuild your life include:
- Exercising regularly
- Participating in ongoing therapy
- Meditating
- Practicing self-care
- Prioritizing sleep
Exercise is a useful outlet for stress. Even something as simple as going for a walk can reduce stress, which can be a trigger for many in recovery. If you are working on taking back your life from addiction, consider finding an exercise routine you enjoy. You might take up running, practice yoga, lift weights, or participate in group exercise classes. Try out a few different types of exercise to find something that is right for you, then make it a habit.
Ongoing therapy is also beneficial for those in recovery at an addiction treatment center. This could include individual therapy sessions every week or every month or group meetings. During therapy, you can discuss challenges you’ve faced on the road to recovery and can find ways to manage stress and other triggers.
Meditation can reduce stress as well as help you understand yourself better. During meditation, you’ll clear away the busyness of life and set intentions for the day. Many apps exist to help people through guided meditations–download a couple and find one that works for you.
Self-care doesn’t just include taking baths or going to the spa. For some, self-care can include taking care of cleaning tasks around the house, spending time relaxing by reading a book, or journaling. Write down things that help you feel grounded and whole, and practice them regularly.
Finally, sleep is essential for recovery. Making sleep a priority can help you heal. Building good sleep habits, such as only using your room for sleeping, lighting candles, or sipping on herbal tea can make bedtime feel like a valued part of your day.
Health and Wellness During Recovery
Taking care of your physical health during recovery is essential. Exercise, sleep, and regular doctor visits can help you stay healthy. At Westwind Recovery®, we offer fitness classes, medical exams, and nutritious, chef-prepared meals during treatment.
Make Everyday Changes for Recovery with Westwind’s Help
At Westwind Recovery®, we offer a wide array of addiction treatment therapy programs and options. Those in our programs learn healthy coping skills and strategies to help them achieve lasting recovery. Through personalized treatment programs, targeted therapies, and health and wellness opportunities, our clients heal from the inside out. Whether you take part in a fitness class, go on recreational outings with other individuals in recovery, or learn about how nutrition can play a role in sobriety, you’ll find that everyday changes can make a big difference in overcoming addiction.
The treatment programs we offer include:
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Outpatient treatment
- Sober housing
- Aftercare
Reach out to one of our representatives to learn more. Our team can help you make everyday changes for recovery. Contact Westwind Recovery® at 855.340.8832 today.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
