Addiction rehab facilities play a crucial role in providing individuals with the support and tools they need to break free from the cycle of substance abuse. A typical day in addiction rehab is structured and focused on holistic healing, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
In this blog, we'll take you through a comprehensive overview of what a typical day looks like in addiction rehab, so you know what to expect during the treatment process.
Life in rehab
Morning routine
Wake-up and reflection:
- Residents typically start their day early, waking up around 6:00 or 7:00 am.
- Morning routines often include personal reflection time, allowing individuals to set positive intentions for the day ahead.
Breakfast and nutritional support:
- A healthy breakfast is a vital component of the rehab routine, providing essential nutrients to support physical recovery.
- Nutritional education is often incorporated to help residents make informed choices about their diet and overall well-being.
Group therapy sessions:
- Morning group therapy sessions focus on building a sense of community and support among residents.
- Therapists guide discussions on various topics, such as coping strategies, communication skills, and relapse prevention.
Meditation and mindfulness practices:
- Incorporating meditation and mindfulness exercises into the morning routine can help residents start their day with a clear and focused mind.
- These practices promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of inner calm, all of which are beneficial for individuals navigating the challenges of addiction recovery.
Goal setting and positive affirmations:
- Residents may engage in goal-setting exercises to establish both short-term and long-term objectives for their recovery journey.
- Positive affirmations, repeated daily, can reinforce a positive mindset and empower individuals to overcome self-doubt and negative thought patterns.
Midday activities
Individual counselling:
- Residents participate in one-on-one counselling sessions with their assigned therapists.
- These sessions delve into personal experiences, triggers, and individualised treatment plans.
Educational workshops:
- Rehab facilities often offer educational workshops covering topics like addiction science, mental health, and life skills.
- Workshops aim to equip individuals with knowledge and tools to navigate challenges post-rehab.
Recreational activities
- Physical exercise and recreational activities are essential for both mental and physical well-being.
- Activities like yoga, meditation, or outdoor sports provide residents with outlets for stress relief.
Afternoon focus
Lunch and nutritional education:
- Another nutritious meal is provided, and residents may attend nutritional education sessions to further understand the link between diet and recovery.
Specialised therapy sessions:
- Afternoons may include specialised therapy sessions such as art therapy, music therapy, or equine therapy.
- These alternative therapies offer unique ways for individuals to express themselves and explore healing avenues.
Life skills training:
- Afternoons can include practical life skills training sessions, covering topics like budgeting, time management, and job readiness.
- Equipping individuals with essential life skills enhances their ability to reintegrate into society successfully and maintain stability post-rehab.
Holistic therapies:
- Beyond traditional therapies, incorporating holistic approaches such as acupuncture, massage therapy, or aromatherapy can address the physical and emotional aspects of addiction recovery.
- These therapies contribute to relaxation, stress reduction, and the overall well-being of individuals in rehab.
Evening routine
Group support meetings:
- Evening group meetings provide a platform for residents to share their progress, challenges, and victories with their peers.
- These meetings foster a sense of accountability and encouragement within the community and are a great addition to family therapy.
12-step meetings:
- Many rehab programs incorporate 12-step meetings or alternative support group sessions.
- These meetings provide a structured approach to recovery, encouraging individuals to work through the steps with the support of their peers.
Free time and reflection:
- Residents often have some free time in the evening to relax, reflect, and engage in personal activities.
- Journaling, reading, or quiet meditation can be part of this reflective time.
Bedtime routine
Lights out
- To promote a healthy sleep routine, lights are typically out around 10pm.
- A good night's sleep is crucial for overall well-being and aids in the recovery process.
Why is sticking to a routine important for those recovering from drug and alcohol addiction?
Sticking to a routine is of paramount importance for individuals recovering from drug and alcohol addiction due to its multifaceted impact on their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. A structured daily routine provides a sense of stability and predictability, crucial elements often lacking during active addiction. This predictability helps to reduce anxiety and stress, common triggers for relapse. Additionally, adhering to a routine establishes healthy habits, such as regular meals, exercise, and sufficient sleep, fostering overall physical recovery.
According to recent studies, individuals who are in recovery have up to 16 to 18 hours of new, unoccupied free time as they no longer require time spent obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of drug or alcohol addiction. Therefore, a common obstacle during early recovery is finding new meaningful activities to fill these hours. A rehab facility can help to restructure these hours, whether it’s during an inpatient program or intensive outpatient treatment.
