While there is a lot of discussion about your first day at rehab, there is not so much discussion about what you can expect once the day ends. After the intake, Q&A, assessments, meeting people, and getting oriented, there is much to reflect on during your first night at rehab.
For many people, getting through the nights can be difficult. It is not unusual for patients to have insomnia that may last several nights in a row. The primary reason for this is that rehab is a significant paradigm shift. Your life as you knew it no longer exists. Your new path to recovery is just beginning.
Uncertainty About the Future
While the shift from addiction to recovery presents lots of opportunities for growth and well-being, it can also be a time of uncertainty. The most anxiety you may feel about the future may occur your first night in rehab. You may wonder if you can get through the day without drugs or alcohol. You may also feel uncertain about whether you can successfully complete the program.
However, with all this uncertainty, there is a lot to look forward to. During rehab, you will learn a lot about yourself, your addiction, and your potential for amazing growth. Your family, therapist, and support group will be there to help you every step of the way.
Intense Cravings Your First Night
The good news is that you made it through detox. You no longer have to worry about your withdrawal symptoms. However, it may take several days or weeks for your cravings to go away.
Cravings are both physical and psychological. Therefore, it takes some time to get them out of your system. Your therapist provides both primary and holistic treatment that will help you manage your cravings. You will engage in both individual and group therapy, as well as activities that promote long-term recovery.
Meeting New People
The first thing you may notice when you enter rehab is all of the people who are also on the same path to recovery. Many of these people will be in your support group. You will share your experiences, thoughts, and feelings as you grow together.
During your first night, you may share a room with someone who, at first, is a complete stranger. It will not be long, however, until you develop a trusting and lasting relationship with your roommate and others around you.
Emotional
During your first few days in rehab, you are likely to run the gamut of emotions. Mood swings may include depression, anger, guilt, anxiety, or fear. You need to allow yourself to go through these emotions. In addition, your therapist will encourage you to talk about them.
Life change is always tough and brings out the most intense emotions. Such is the case with recovery. If you find yourself crying on the first night, it probably won’t be the only time. Emotions are a natural part of the healing process. Therefore, you need to allow them to run their course – especially on the first night.
Start Your Treatment at Summit Detox
Are you ready to take the first step to recovery from drugs and alcohol? If so, then contact Summit Detox. We provide a full on-site detox program for all types of addictions, including:
- Opiate detox programs
- Alcohol detox programs
- Benzodiazepine detox programs
To find out more about what we offer, and what to expect during your first night, call us at (888) 995-5265.
