The first 30 days clean are absolutely critical for individuals recovering from drug addiction. The first 30 days set the foundation for the remainder of the recovery journey and become the true testament of the individual’s ability to remain abstinent.
If you or someone you love is experiencing difficult moments during the first 30 days, stay strong, connect to faith, and reach out to loved ones. The first 30 days are the most difficult, but are a time to build the resilience needed in battling painful moments and avoiding a relapse. Knowing what to expect and what to do in the first 30 days clean is essential in establishing a growth mindset and the motivation to stay sober.
What to Expect During the First 30 Days Clean
Physical withdrawal symptoms.The first 30 days clean prove to be the most difficult days because you have just experienced the detoxification process and are trying to live in the absence of the drug. The following are the withdrawal symptoms that you may experience after the detoxification symptoms.
Mild withdrawal symptoms may include the following:
- Feelings of unease or worry
- Sweating
- Shakiness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Feelings of tenseness
- Anxiousness
- Insomnia
- Feeling upset or depressed
- Anxiety/irritability
Moderate to severe symptoms may include abdominal pain, pain sensations throughout the body, hallucinations, delusions, or seizures.
Rest assured that the medical staff and therapists are trained to help you cope with your withdrawal symptoms and are available 24/7 to help you overcome difficult moments.
Emotional instability. Physical withdrawal symptoms may cause intense feelings of anxiety or irritability in the absence of the drug. Whether you are experiencing the symptoms of depression or anxiety, experiencing painful moments can be overcome with the use of self-soothing strategies and productive coping mechanisms. Your therapist and spiritual counselor will teach you the skills needed in managing your emotions in an effective way that will decrease stress and promote mindfulness.
What to do to Avoid a Relapse During the First 30 Days Clean
Call your recovery sponsor/therapist.- In moments of difficulty, do not be afraid to ask for help. Calling your recovery sponsor or therapist will help to decrease stress and will prevent you from engaging in a destructive behavior that may cause you to relapse. When you are craving the drug, immediately notify your recovery sponsor or therapist. They will give you the psychotherapy techniques needed in transforming those negative thoughts and behaviors into positive outcomes.
Use your coping mechanisms. Exercise, read a book, watch a movie, or write in a reflective journal. Using coping mechanisms such as exercise, meditation, and other enjoyable hobbies will help you to replace struggling moments with productive activities.
Continue individual and group therapy sessions. During individual therapy sessions, therapists will help you establish personalized coping mechanisms based in psychotherapy techniques. You will be able to refine your recovery goals and create an action plan for achieving your goals when integrated back into your old community.
Group therapy sessions provide you with a community of support with individuals who have a shared human experience. Connecting with people who have struggled with addiction will humble your experience and make you realize that everyone has difficult moments.
Connect with loved ones. Connecting with positive friends and family members will help you realize how much you are loved. Every conversation you have with your loved ones will encourage you and will give you the willpower needed to maintain on your path of recovery. Your loved ones will motivate you to achieve your goals because they want you to become a healthy individual again.
Maintain a daily schedule. Stick to your daily goals and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. It is important that you set your goals for each day and strive to maintain them. Begin your day with meditation or another self-soothing strategy, such as praying or reading, to help you establish mindfulness and serenity. Additionally, exercising, eating balanced meals, and getting the proper amount of sleep must be consistent in the first 30 days in order for individuals to feel healthy and positive.
Incorporate spirituality. Reach out to the Christian community and maintain your faith. God wants you to have a successful recovery and believes that you can reach your full potential. Continuing prayer and following in His Path will empower you to connect to a larger power greater than yourself. You will be humbled by the experience and will realize your full potential and purpose as a human being.
Commitment to Providing Whole-Person Care
The first 30 days prove to be a challenging time for individuals suffering from drug addiction. At Covenant Hills, the dedicated staff focuses on the whole-person approach to helping patients fully restore their mind, body, and spirit from addiction. The world class staff of medical experts, therapists, counselors, and pastors are committed to establishing individually designed care that meets the needs of every suffering individual. With research based approaches and a spiritual foundation, individuals will be provided with the tools and strength needed to withstand the first 30 days and remain drug free.
At Covenant Hills, individuals have a wide-range of treatment program options that include inpatient, outpatient, and aftercare choices. All of these options promote a Christ-centered version of whole person health and help individuals maintain abstinence. With support and encouragement provided every single step of the way, Covenant Hills offers effective researched based approaches to help recovering addicts remain abstinent for the rest of their lives.
Do you need help, or is a loved one struggling with addiction? Please call us today at (888) 662-2873. This is a free, confidential call and assessment.
