Completing your Valium rehab program is a significant milestone towards a healthy, sober life. While the journey of recovery is challenging, it’s not over yet. Staying sober after rehab is equally important.
Read on to find out how to stay sober for much longer, even after you have completed your rehab program.
Why does Valium become addictive?
Valium, also known as diazepam, is a prescription medication belonging to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It’s commonly prescribed to treat conditions like anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures. It operates by amplifying the impacts of a neurotransmitter known as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which aids in soothing your brain and nervous system.
When you take the drug, it can provide a sense of relaxation and relief from anxiety or tension. This calming effect can make you feel more at ease and can even help you sleep better. However, it’s important to understand that diazepam has a potential for addiction.
It becomes addictive because of the way it affects your brain and body. When you take the drug regularly or for an extended period, your brain may start to rely on the drug to produce feelings of relaxation and well-being. Over time, your brain can become tolerant to the effects of diazepam. In other words, you may need higher doses to achieve the same results.
As your body develops a tolerance, you may also experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop taking the drug. These symptoms can include anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, irritability, and even seizures. The discomfort caused by withdrawal can make it challenging to quit using the drug without proper support.
Additionally, diazepam can create a psychological dependence. You may start to believe that you need the drug to cope with everyday life or to manage stress. This reliance on the drug can make it difficult to imagine life without it.
How big of a problem is relapse?
Relapse refers to returning to drug use after you have abstained for a time. This is a common challenge you can face when recovering from an addiction.
Relapse rates can vary depending on factors such as:
- What substance you’re addicted to
- Individual circumstances and health status
- Availability and strength of your support system
According to studies, the relapse rates for addiction recovery range from 40 to 60 percent. These numbers may seem high, but you must understand that relapse is not an indication of failure. It is actually a common part of the recovery process. It’s how you bounce back from relapse that matters.
How can I prevent relapse?
Build a strong support network
Surround yourself with people who understand and support your recovery journey. Connect with fellow recovering individuals, attend support group meetings, and reach out to family and friends who are committed to your sobriety. Your support network are the people you can lean on and trust the most during challenging times.
Identify and avoid triggers
Recognize the people, places, and situations that may trigger cravings or thoughts of using the drug. Create a list of triggers and develop strategies to avoid or manage them effectively. It could be anything from steering clear of certain social events to finding alternative coping mechanisms for stress. Be proactive about avoiding your triggers.
Practice self-care
Prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Take on a new hobby, go for walks, exercise, and find creative ways to make yourself happy. If you take good care of yourself, you will soon lose the desire to take drugs and engage in destructive behavior.
Develop coping skills
In the face of challenges, stress, or emotional turmoil, having healthy coping mechanisms is vital.Discover a range of strategies that suit your needs, such as practicing deep breathing exercises, keeping a journal, embracing mindfulness, or engaging in creative activities. Learning new coping skills equips you to handle difficulties without resorting to substance use.
Set realistic goals
Make sure your goals are actually achievable. Break down your long-term recovery goals into smaller, manageable steps. This way, you can better track your progress. Also, celebrate each milestone along the way. Doing this reinforces your commitment and encourages you to keep moving forward.
Stay mindful and present
Direct your attention to the present moment. Rather than fixating on past errors or fretting over the future, cultivate the ability to wholeheartedly embrace the current moment. Mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing or meditation, can assist in managing cravings and redirecting your thoughts.
Seek professional help
Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals if you’re struggling with drug cravings or feel overwhelmed. Therapists, counselors, and addiction specialists are there to provide guidance and support throughout your recovery journey. Let their expertise help you in staying sober and preventing relapse.
Relapse does not mean failure
It’s important to understand that relapse does not equate to failure. Addiction recovery is a complex process, and setbacks can happen.
Instead of viewing relapse as a personal failure, see it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Use it as a chance to reassess your strategies, identify triggers, and strengthen your commitment to sobriety.
Remember, many individuals have experienced relapse and successfully maintained long-term recovery. You can, too!
Conclusion
You can stay sober long after your Valium rehab program through effective relapse prevention strategies. By building a strong support network, avoiding triggers, practicing self-care, developing coping skills, setting realistic goals, staying mindful, and seeking professional help when needed, you can increase your chances of maintaining sobriety.
Relapse does not define you or your recovery journey. Embrace it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your approach to sobriety. You can overcome any challenge that comes your way. Stay strong, believe in yourself, and take it one day at a time.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Reach out to your support network, attend meetings, and connect with individuals who understand what you’re going through. With them, you can conquer addiction and create a brighter, healthier future for yourself.
