What should a family do when person comes home after rehab?
When a family welcomes a loved one home after rehab, it's crucial to support their journey towards recovery and reintegration into family life. Here's what a family can do to help:
1. Educate and Inform:
- Learn about the person's addiction, recovery program, and any prescribed medications or treatments.
2. Create a Supportive Environment:
- Provide emotional support and let them know you're there for them without judgment.
3. Avoid Substance Triggers:
- Remove alcohol and drugs from the home, and avoid places or activities that may trigger relapse.
4. Encourage Self-Care:
- Help them prioritize healthy habits like balanced meals, exercise, and enough sleep.
5. Set Clear Expectations:
- Establish reasonable ground rules and expectations around behavior, responsibilities, and household contributions.
6. Offer Structure and Accountability:
- Assign daily routines and responsibilities to build a sense of purpose and accountability.
7. Promote Open Communication:
- Have open and honest discussions about their recovery, challenges, and emotions.
8. Be Patient:
- Recovery is a process, and there may be setbacks along the way. Be patient and understanding.
9. Help Them Seek Continued Support:
- Encourage the person to continue attending support groups, therapy, or other recovery programs.
10. Celebrate Milestones:
- Acknowledge their progress and celebrate milestones achieved on the road to recovery.
11. Respect Boundaries:
- Respect the person's privacy and personal space, particularly regarding their therapy or recovery-related discussions.
12. Seek Professional Help for Family:
- If needed, consider family counseling or therapy to learn how to best support the person.
13. Be There for the Long Term:
- Recovery is ongoing and may take time. Continue providing love, support, and encouragement throughout the journey.
Remember, every person's recovery journey is unique, and the family can play a significant role in fostering a positive and supportive environment for their loved one's successful recovery.