Get ready to change your life
As you begin your recovery, here are some positive exercises to support you:
Write down your reasons for seeking help
Think about what is important to you that might be putting at risk by your drinking or drug use — your family, paying rent, graduating from college, your friends, your health, or your career. Imagine you’re living exactly as you are now in five years. Is there anything you would like to be different? If so, what would need to happen to make that change?
Imagine a bright future
Ask yourself what your future self would say to encourage you to start treatment. Imagine what it feels like to have the freedom to spend time with your loved ones, doing the things you most enjoy — to be on top of your game at work or at school — to feel healthy and full of life.
Start planning
Is anything standing in the way of getting treatment? Getting to your appointment, finding someone to watch your child, or fitting treatment around work or other responsibilities could all make attending treatment tricky. A Navigator Care Specialist will help you get an appointment for treatment at a time that works for you and find options that fit around your schedule.
Build your awareness
Think about the times when you feel tempted to turn to drugs or alcohol. This will be helpful during treatment, too — understanding when these times arise to help you avoid certain situations going forward. Think of this as a time to explore and learn about your substance use and get the tools to help manage it.
Reach out to your loved ones
When experiencing the heavy emotions that may come with using drugs and alcohol, let your friends and family know that you would like them to be part of your support team — to check in and encourage you to stick with your treatment. Speak to others who have battled their own drug and alcohol challenges and come through to lead a full life afterwards.
Explore activities to do during treatment
These activities may distract you when you’re tempted to drink or take drugs — maybe it’s meditation, exercise, or something creative. If you feel ready, you might find it rewarding to use your experience to help others going through similar challenges. You are a positive example of someone getting help and paving the way for a brighter future. What you are doing is inspiring to many.
