Some Reminders for Anyone Entering Rehab for an Addiction

So you decided to enter rehab to help overcome your addictions, fears and anxieties. The first day can be very scary for anyone who goes to rehab. Many people may wonder what they should and should not do when going to rehab. This can cause a lot of fear and anxiety.

As a result, here are some suggestions on what you should know when going to rehab for your addictions.

1. Follow the rules: The No. 1 thing a person should do is to follow the rules when entering rehab. Your goal is to get better and you’re not there to see what you can get away with. Focus your energies on getting better and don’t do anything that could get you kicked out of the place.

2. Listen to the professionals: If you’re working with counselors you trust, don’t be afraid to listen to them. The counselors you are dealing with are professionals and they have dealt with many people in your situation. Most of the time, these counselors are experts and following their advice will help speed up your recovery.

3. Ask questions: Going to rehab can be a new and stressful experience. Always ask questions on anything you’re not familiar with to help make your stay more pleasant. The people in rehab are there to answer your questions so fire away. There is no such thing as a silly question so don’t feel hesitant to get the answers to your questions related to your stay and rehab experience.

4. Don’t assume anything: Many people think they know what to expect when they go to rehab from what they hear from others. It is very important not to assume anything when you’re in rehab. Each situation is a new experience and don’t assume that your previous stays will be a repeat of the past. Things change all of the time so don’t assume anything. If in doubt, ask!

5. Be friendly with others: Do not take out your frustrations and fears out on the staff or on your fellow residents. A person going to rehab can get be scared and frustrated so it’s important to find some other ways of dealing with these issues. Blaming others for your problems is not the way to go and can interfere with your recovery. Be nice to others and in turn most people will treat you with respect.

6. Write down everything: When talking to the professionals it is impossible to remember every detail of the advice given to you. I know I would forget what my counselors said after a few days. Talking to these experts can provide valuable advice on how to deal with your fears and anxieties and you don’t want to forget what you were told. If possible find a way to write down the advice given to you by the doctors and staff.

7. Go to the programs and meetings: Many of the rehab facilities offer 30-60 minute programs in the mornings, afternoons and at night. Make sure you attend most of these daily programs. The purpose of these programs is to help educate you in finding the right way of overcoming your fears. If you decide to sleep in or decide to just skip the programs all together you could miss valuable information and delay the recovery process.

8. Do not give up: The key is to be patient, take it slow and not to give up. In time, you will be able to find those resources that will help you. In addition, try to learn as much as you can while you’re in rehab, which will increase your chances of getting your life back on track.