How to Stay Motivated During Drug Rehab

Ups and Downs of Recovery

Entering drug rehab is one of the most important steps a person can take in the process of becoming clean and leading a drug-free life. But even after entering the right treatment program and experiencing success, some people may find themselves losing motivation from time to time. There can be numerous reasons behind these dips in motivation, including:

• Lack of coping mechanisms
• Discouragement from peers or loved ones
• General disillusionment 

People who are going through drug rehab can use the following strategies to help them get through any challenging periods and remain motivated over the course of treatment.

Understand that Recovery Is a Process

One of the major reasons for discouragement during treatment has to do with how people think about recovering from an addiction. It can be easy to imagine that recovery comes to an abrupt end and results in a person being completely cured of addiction. Although this is a common way of thinking, the fact is that recovery is not a single event, but rather a process - often one that can last for a lifetime.

Recovering drug abusers should continually remind themselves that drug addiction is a ongoing and will continue after treatment ends. Changing this mindset and focusing on small achievements along the way can significantly increase a former drug abuser’s motivation.

Spend Time with Motivated People in Recovery

One of the benefits of going through rehab is that recovering individuals are exposed to a community of people who have the same goals of overcoming their addictions and leading healthier lifestyles. This can be especially vital when a person experiences a motivational low point.

Instead of trying to fight the lack of motivation in solitude, recovering drug abusers should instead seek out support and guidance from people who have experienced similar feelings and who are doing well. Many treatment centers offer group activities that can facilitate meaningful connections between people in recovery.

People who are struggling with motivation can even seek out relationships with former drug abusers outside of their facility. With an estimated 10% of people in the U.S. being in recovery from substance abuse, there are numerous individuals with the same goals and experiences who may be able to listen, relate and provide encouragement.

Connect with Loved Ones

One of the most common motivations for recovery is the well-being of a former abuser’s loved ones, including spouses, children and close friends. These important people can continue to be sources of inspiration during the recovery process.

There is a misconception that drug addiction recovery programs require separation from a person’s friends and family members for extended periods of time. However, many treatment options are actually outpatient centers, meaning that participants attend treatment during the day and come home each evening.

Some inpatient treatment centers also help recovering drug abusers remain connected to their loved ones by inviting family members to visit and participate in counseling sessions. This contact can remind individuals of their original reasons for quitting and boost their motivation.

Keep a Journal

When people have been in treatment for a while, it’s often difficult for them to accurately assess their progress. As a result, they may become discouraged and believe that their treatment has stagnated even if it hasn’t.

One way that former drug abusers can accurately track their progress is by keeping a journal throughout their treatment. While the journal can take any form that a person wants, it’s helpful for recovering abusers to record their feelings and experiences on a regular basis.

Often the mere task of writing these reflections down will help solidify many of the lessons learned in treatment and keep motivation high. Furthermore, whenever participants experience a lull in motivation, they can re-read their journals and draw strength from the visible progress they’ve made.

Draw from a Numerous Sources of Support

While losing motivation can make recovery difficult, it’s important for individuals to realize that ups and downs are completely normal aspects of the recovery process. Fortunately, there are many people who can help former drug abusers continue on the path to success, including drug rehab treatment professionals, loved ones and other individuals in recovery.