Entering rehab is the biggest step in recovery from substance abuse and addiction. However, the thought of going to a rehab deters many people from seeking help.
Everyone’s experience of rehab is different. It largely depends on their history of use, the recommended treatment, and where they go to rehab. But some things are common. The better prepared you are, the better are your chances of recovery.
You may feel Uncomfortable
Treatment and rehab are all about change. Adjusting to a new environment, learning new rules, meeting new people, and sharing your feelings in front of strangers can all make you uncomfortable at first.
However, gradually, you would learn to overcome your discomfort and embrace change. Feeling uncomfortable is part of the process. The professionals and staff at the rehab know this and are equipped to help you cope with changes and adjusting to them.
You may feel it is Difficult
Recovery is NOT easy. Addiction treatment requires work and commitment to your own well-being.
You have to open up to your clinician, participate in individual counseling and group therapy, and obey the rules. You need to be open to change. And most importantly, you have to be honest with yourself. There will be challenging moments but you will have peer and professional support. If you are prepared to put in the work, it will all prove worth it.
You may feel like Quitting
You would go through withdrawal symptoms and urges and cravings. It will all make you feel like quitting and going home. You can do that but succumbing to addiction is worse than putting in a few days of hard work and enjoy a wonderful life at the end of the tunnel.
You will have good days and bad days. You may have days when you would question whether you want to stay in treatment. Most people on the same journey have felt this way and are now happily recovering. You can too. You would have helped to push through negative feelings and doubts and focus on your progress.
You would make friends for life
Who would understand your journey better than someone who is going through similar stuff themselves?
While addiction can be lonely, recovery is all about connecting and forming lasting bonds. Once you realize how much you have in common with others in rehab, you will find friends who trust and support you. Many recovering individuals stay friends long after they have left treatment.
