Recovery and treatment are not a one-size-fits-all approach. While in treatment, the program should begin by looking at the whole you, not just treating the addiction. It’s not just the program that needs to look at the whole you, you also need to make the treatment work for you.
Here are a few steps you can take for yourself to prepare for treatment and make it work for you:
- Know Your “Why” – Focusing on your “why” can help you stick the program even during the times when you want to give up. Get clear on your why you’re getting treatment and remain committed to your recovery, no matter how tough it can get.
- Deal with the Fear of Going to Treatment – We understand that getting treatment can feel frightening. Taking that first step, however, is a humbling, enlightening experience in breaking free from your addiction. Oftentimes, that fear is as a result of uncertainty. You make yourself, “what will be expected of me?” or “what will happen during treatment?” Luckily, the best way to combat that fear and uncertainty is to inform yourself of the process. Knowledge is power.
- Cut Ties with Negative Influences – Cutting ties with friends and/or family that serve as triggers for drug and alcohol use will go a long way to preparing you for your treatment and recovery. As tough as it may be, cutting these relationships that don’t serve you or your recovery will help you be able to focus on yourself first.
- Keep a Positive Mindset – Being in treatment, it can be hard to feel positive about it. You may feel ashamed about having to get treatment or feel bad that you even have to do it in the first place. That couldn’t be further from the truth. When you reframe your recovery in a positive light, you’ll get through your recovery with a good attitude and mindset. Look forward to the positive outcomes that could come out of your treatment, such as better, stronger relationships, more money, and less legal issues. Having a positive outlook is crucial to a successful recovery.
You can make treatment work for you by ultimately doing the work to focus on you and what you need to get out of treatment. Following the above tips will help you make the most out of your recovery.