Working through the first year of sobriety can seem like the hardest part of addiction recovery. That’s because it is. There is a lot to relearn and accomplish during this time. There are plenty of challenges trying to hold you back, too. That is why it is so critical to stay connected and engaged with treatment. Our alumni program at CeDAR helps to make that possible by creating ways for you to always remain focused on long-term sobriety.
What Happens the First Year of Sobriety?
A person leaving drug and alcohol addiction treatment finds themselves in a very interesting place. A part of them feels ready, inspired, and empowered to take on the world. Another part is holding back, unsure of how they can manage the world around them. Here are some things you can expect during that first year.
- Questioning: Are you able to do this? Do you have what it takes to not use? Most people find themselves questioning their abilities, drive, and willpower. That’s normal. Stay on the path.
- Stress: Because stress is a big part of most people’s lives in some form, you’ll have strategies to help you minimize the complications stress can have in recovery. You’ll still face intense times.
- People: Some people want to support your recovery and remain by your side. Others want to see you fail. Removing poor relationships from your life is a big part of recovery.
- Accomplishments: Most people also start to experience good things, like getting a job, feeling better physically, and gaining control over their future. You may start small, but over time, you’ll feel empowered to do much more.
- Afraid: There will be times where you fear what is to come. Yet, with the right support group in place, you can find yourself working through hard times.
There’s no way to eliminate the risk of exposure to drugs and alcohol, though you’ll learn strategies to help you do this. You may feel tempted in some situations. It is in these times you’ll need to take action.
Maintaining Sobriety Means Knowing to Get Help
There are many ways to get help during addiction recovery. When you leave therapy, you’ll have a step-by-step list of what to do if you feel at risk for using again. This is the tool you need to use to embrace your treatment. It may include a range of supportive resources such as:
- Access to your counselor and therapist
- Outpatient treatment programs
- Alumni treatment programs
- Local support groups
- 12-step meeting access
- Resources for getting help immediately
You may also have a mentor to call. This person is there for you when things become difficult. Maintaining sobriety means recognizing when things are becoming too difficult, such as when you are thinking about using again. In those moments, all of the hard work you’ve done is on the line. All you have to do is to reach out to someone who can help.
What Happens if You Relapse?
It’s okay to find yourself afraid of relapsing. That, too, is normal. If it occurs, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed but rather that you need more help and support. Our team at CeDAR can provide that level of support to you through a range of programs, including:
- Medical detox programs
- Inpatient addiction treatment
- Extended addiction treatment
- Partial hospitalization program
- Outpatient treatment programs
- Family therapy programs
Recovery Starts in Detox
For someone who has been addicted to alcohol, fentanyl, stimulants, or other psychoactive drugs for an extended period of time, an at-home detox might not go so well. The withdrawal symptoms that a chemically dependent patient experiences might be physically damaging or simply too severe and unpleasant to withstand, leading to a higher risk of relapse. Plus, in the case of quitting cold turkey, your tolerance will be lowered, putting you at higher risk of overdose in the event of a relapse. CeDAR’s inpatient medical detox program makes detox manageable.
Choose Your Health – Call CeDAR for Help Today
The first year of sobriety is a challenging and rewarding experience filled with opportunity and healing if you have enough support. Don’t go it alone. Embrace all of the treatment and support you need at CeDAR. Our dedicated team wants to help you. Call 720.848.3000 or reach out to us online now to learn more.