After rehab, it can be difficult to return to an old environment and risk bad habits after the work you have put in. No matter the age, returning to work or school after rehab can bring up complex emotions and lead to peer pressure. Once you are out of rehab and feel ready to jump back into a routine, here are the things we suggest to make the transition as smooth as possible.
The availability of drugs and more peer pressure from social media has made more high school and college students become exposed to illegal drugs. Developing a substance abuse problem at any age will cause physical, mental, and social consequences for the future. Taking the step to be a better member of society and take back control of your life is a worthy feat.
1- Make New Friends (Sober Ones)
If you do return to the same workplace or school, you should focus on finding friends and peers who are willing to support your sobriety. After entering rehab, you may have experienced your old group of friends feeling rejected or slighted. Other addicts will not always be comfortable with sober friends, so finding a new supportive group will help you continue to resist substances.
If you are starting at a new job or new University, making new friends can be intimidating. However, being honest about your past and being your true self around new people will help you gain a solid group of friends. If making friends is intimidating, you may be able to join a club at the school that interests you. For older working adults, find a gym class or community groups that meet regularly. You can invite co-workers or classmates to attend with you.
2- Don’t Rush
Jumping back into society may feel like the next step in your sober journey. Many recovering addicts rush into new things and the temptations of the world catch up to them quickly. After your rehab treatment is over, you should continue to meet with a sober group or peer support group as you transition to a new life.
Returning to work or school too soon could reverse some of the progress you made during a program. It is ok to take time away from these stressful environments while you learn to cope with stress without substances. There is no strict timeline on when teens or adults should return to work or school. Use your discretion or speak with a therapist to determine the best course of action. Take your time in making your decision.
3- Find A Good Work-Life Balance
After rehab or another sober program, you will need to learn to better manage your time and stress levels. Even though you may want to accomplish new goals, you should remember to take care of yourself too. Some ways to achieve a healthy work-life balance include:
- Taking advantage of PTO and sick days
- Finding a hobby you enjoy outside of work
- Not answering emails or phone calls after work hours
- Relaxing and unwinding after work
- Practicing self-care
- Designating spots in your home for working vs. relaxing
Once you are done with work, you should be able to focus on other tasks. Finding a hobby like reading, exercising, gaming, writing, drawing, or woodworking can help you occupy your mind when temptation may be high. Those in recovery often throw themselves into work to avoid being tempted to participate in drugs or alcohol, but this can be toxic as well.
4- Meet With A Support Group Or With A Campus Counselor
Seeking outside support is always a good option after being in rehab. Meeting with a therapist, attending a sober group, or another group session facilitated by a professional can help you stick with more healthy habits. This is also a great space to ask questions, share experiences, and work through challenges without feeling alone. Many of us struggle with a lot of the same emotions and shortcomings. It can be beneficial to recovering addicts and others to hear similar concerns from others.
If you are trying to return to the workforce, ask your HR department about AA meetings or recovery groups around the office. Or schedule recurring therapy appointments with a psychologist bi-weekly.
If you are wanting to return to school, check with the high school or university counseling center to see what appointments they have for you. With so many students, you may not be able to attend as frequently as you want, but these counselors will understand the unique school you attend.
Schools can also provide additional resources like quiet study areas, sober areas on campus, or meetings with professors to discuss your concerns on substances or campus drug issues. Being aware of potential temptations will help you avoid them when a hairy situation arises.
5- Be Open To Alternatives
Sometimes, returning to work or school may not be in your best interest. There could be too many temptations or others who want to reduce your progress. Younger students may want to seek out an alternative high school or homeschooling. These options reduce the risk of running into old friends who could elicit bad habits.
While going back to a job you already know is more comfortable, that setting may not be healthy or may not welcome you back. Be open to looking at different industries or a lower-paying position until you can figure out your new healthy routine.
Recovery Options From Red Willow
Red Willow Counseling And Recovery offers individual counseling, group therapy, intensive outpatient programs, and other addiction resources. Our team of therapists and specialists are here to help you on any step of your recovery journey. No matter what addiction you struggle with, we can help provide you with resources during your recovery and after! Reach out to our Salt Lake or Park City location to learn more about all the offerings we can provide for you.
