Heroin is a powerful opiate, and recovering from addiction can sometimes feel stressful or challenging. Maintaining a successful recovery is possible with the right tools, support, and treatment plan.
Whether you are seeking substance abuse treatment for the first time or are looking to continue your recovery journey, here are tips to keep in mind for a healthy post-treatment lifestyle. To get help, call us today at (844) 999-0874 or contact the SAMHSA National Helpline 24/7 at +1 (800) 662-4357.
1: Enter Your New Treatment Program with an Open Mind
One of the most important things to remember when starting a new treatment program is to keep an open mind. Be willing to listen to and collaborate with the therapists and medical professionals that will be providing the treatment.
Successful treatment requires time, effort, and a commitment to following your care plan. It is also important to be honest with your care team about the goals you want to set as well as any concerns, anxieties, or struggles you are experiencing.
2: Follow Up with Therapists and Doctors Once the Program is Finished
Some individuals can complete a treatment program and maintain their recovery for the rest of their lives without much thought or effort. For others, it might remain more of an ongoing journey.
If you experience temptations to relapse during recovery, this does not mean that you “failed” or that you are “bad” for these completely normal struggles. Following up with your care team can provide additional support and help you get back on track with sobriety.
Once you have finished your treatment program, continue to schedule appointments with a therapist and medical professional. Depending on the treatment center, they may offer aftercare services post-completion or they may refer you to another provider that they recommend.
3: Identify Common Triggers that Used to Make You Want to Use Heroin
One of the most important things you can do in order to maintain sobriety is to identify your personal triggers that used to make you want to use heroin.
Triggers can be anything from people, places, or things that remind you of specific emotions or situations. Once you have identified them, it is important to have a plan in place to avoid or deal with them should they arise.
Some people find it helpful to write down triggers and carry the list around with them as a reminder. There is not a single “correct” or “right” way to deal with triggers, but it is important to have an action plan in place to address them.
4: Avoid People or Places that Used to Enable Substance Abuse
Just as it is important to identify your triggers, it is also essential to avoid the people or places that used to enable your past substance abuse habits. Enablers are typically people who do not support your sobriety or recovery journey. They might be individuals who sell or still use heroin themselves or those who do not take your recovery seriously.
5: Try New Activities to Alleviate Feelings of Boredom or Loneliness
When you are first in recovery, it is important to find new activities to replace feelings of boredom or isolation that might have motivated you to use heroin in the past. This can be a challenge, as opiates often provide an escape from negative emotions or feelings.
Try out new hobbies, interests, and activities that can help you keep busy and distracted from any thoughts or temptations to use. Some ideas can include attending local meetings or support groups, going on nature walks, reading books, or trying out a new hobby.
6: Spend More Time with Sober Friends and Family Members
Another way to avoid feelings of boredom or loneliness is to spend more time with sober friends and family members. These individuals can provide support, advice, and encouragement throughout your journey. They can also join you in social activities that do not involve the use of substances.
7: Meditate or Practice Other Healthy Stress Reduction Techniques
Heroin addiction can often be a way to self-medicate and cope with difficult emotions or feelings. In order to avoid relapse, it is important to find other healthy ways to deal with stressors in your life.
Meditation is one popular method that can help you calm and focus your thoughts. There are many apps and websites that offer guided meditations, or you can find a class in your local area. Other healthy stress-reduction techniques can include journaling, deep breathing exercises, and yoga.
Start Your Heroin Addiction Recovery Journey in South Florida Today
Our team at Compassion Behavioral Health provides caring substance abuse and mental health treatment services at our center in beautiful South Florida. If you are looking to start your own journey toward recovery from heroin addiction or another substance, call us today at (844) 999-0874 or reach out online at any time.
