A working professional’s day-to-day may be packed with what seems to be endless tasks. Many professionals maintain great work performance by establishing a structured routine. When an individual chooses to surrender to treatment, their routine completely changes. If one’s condition is severe, they may have to lengthen their stay. The longer they take time from work, the harder it may be to transition back to work after treatment. Many individuals find it helpful to develop an aftercare plan with a specialist at Avalon Malibu. Although one may face many challenges after returning to work after treatment, many clients at Avalon Malibu benefit from developing an aftercare plan for continuing success.
The Challenges of Returning to Work After Treatment
Early recovery can be a vulnerable stage. Many individuals may still feel unsure of themselves, especially without receiving ongoing support. Substance triggers and unwanted drug exposure can be problematic. It can be tough for one to get back into their routine and still maintain the skills learned in treatment for ongoing success. Even though they may be less intense than before treatment, substance cravings can make it harder for one to effectively focus in their workplace.Â
If an individual does not find new employment and chooses to stay in their current work environment, it may be difficult to cut ties with co-workers who still continue to misuse harmful substances. An individual may feel left out of the loop or find it tough to respond to peer pressure. It may also seem hard for one to express their choice to live a sober lifestyle at a work event or party. Therefore, many individuals may avoid attending company celebrations and miss out on further opportunities.
Self-Help Strategies to Cope After Returning to Work After Treatment
Knowing it can be difficult for some professionals to return to work after treatment, practicing certain strategies can help. Sometimes, it can help to stop into the office and familiarize oneself with the environment before one plans on returning to work after treatment. Catching up with closer co-workers a week before returning to work may also help one prepare themselves for the uneasy transition. Depending on the relationship, it can be beneficial to share some details about their break ahead of time.Â
Not everyone is ready to be thrown into a 9-5 Monday through Friday schedule. It can help if an individual makes a special request. They can ask to work just a few days a week until they become more acclimated to the routine. If an individual faces problems with hurtful stigma, inappropriate stereotypes, or mental health discrimination in their workplace, human resources should be available for support.Â
The Benefits of Developing an Aftercare Plan for Long-Term Recovery
Depending on an individual’s employer, sometimes human resources may not seem very helpful. To prevent or better cope with certain challenges, it may be wise for an individual to consider developing an aftercare plan. It is highly common for one recovering from substance use disorder (SUD) to relapse within the first year after completing addiction treatment. According to Alcohol Research Current Reviews, continuing care for those moving forward from severe SUD is widely thought to be an important component of long-term recovery.Â
Studies have also proven that continuing care interventions with a longer duration were more likely to produce positive effects. Considerable evidence highlighted that combining self-help participation with ongoing care is critical for relapse prevention purposes.Â
For example, many individuals worry about establishing a healthy living environment, making healthy connections, and getting involved with their community. This can all distract one from work responsibilities. A recovery coach can assist an individual in creating a healthy foundation for complete balance. Moving forward with a recovery coach can assist one in various areas such as:
- Maintaining abstinence
- Aiding in relapse prevention
- Finding employment
- Staying involved in sober activities
- Finding secure housing
- Connecting clients to other sources of support
How Can Avalon Malibu Assist in Building a Robust Aftercare Plan?
Avalon Malibu’s team of professionals can provide their clients with continuing care after returning to work after treatment. Their clients are eligible to receive as much or as little support as they need from their alumni program. Those who stay active and engaged often find it easier to respond to certain triggers, cope with major setbacks, stay productive, and maintain abstinence from drugs and alcohol.
The challenges in early recovery can leave a professional feeling isolated. Avalon Malibu’s alumni program can provide the emotional and peer support needed to keep moving forward with confidence. The group can be beneficial for professionals seeking long-term mental stability for ongoing success. During an alumni meeting, their clients discuss how to rebuild relationships, deal with cravings, cope with current events, and more. A variety of modalities and formats at Avalon Malibu that support continuing care include:Â
- Outpatient group therapyÂ
- Brief check-ups
- Outpatient individual therapy
- Self-help meetings
- Video chats via Skype
At Avalon Malibu, we provide clients with a complete and supportive continuum of care. When an individual enrolls in one of our innovative treatment programs, a multiple-stage plan is put into place to achieve their goal of recovery. The Avalon Malibu staff will not just throw our clients back into the fire; we will help them through a continuing addiction education program and relapse prevention. The quality of the aftercare program provided by Avalon Malibu can have a strong influence on a client’s recovery. Our treatment team helps prepare individuals for the days following graduation from the rehab facility. Call our luxurious center at (844) 857-5992 to receive the support you deserve.
