The Benefits of Sobriety: What Rehab Can Do For You

The decision to seek treatment for drug or alcohol abuse isn’t easy. Like many others who need rehab, you can come up with dozens of reasons why you think rehab won’t work.  Instead, try to focus on how much your life will improve if rehab does work.  The good news is that rehab does work and millions of people are now enjoying the benefits of sobriety because of professional addiction treatment programs.  

If you’re unsure about entering an addiction treatment program, talk to others who are in recovery.  Some of the things they share about their journey may be helpful.  The fact that you’re seeking information is a good sign that you are ready to commit to freeing yourself from the grip of addictive substances.  Keep reading to learn more about how sobriety can improve your life and health.

Physical Benefits of Sobriety

Drug and alcohol abuse takes a tremendous toll on a person’s physical health.  With continued substance abuse, health problems can become life-threatening.  Fortunately, during rehab at Design for Change, you’ll participate in various activities to improve your physical well-being.  Also, you’ll enjoy nutritious foods that help your body heal and regain the vitality you once felt.  

Here are some of the physical benefits of sobriety that you may not have thought of:

• Better sleep quality – Addictive substances can interfere with sleep patterns, leaving you feeling tired, irritable, and foggy-headed.  Without the toxic chemicals in your body, sleep quality increases and your overall well-being improves.
• Improved immunities – When you no longer have addictive toxins in your body, your immune system can effectively fight illnesses and diseases.
• More energy – One of the main side effects of substance use is lethargy and fatigue.  Imagine going about your day with significantly higher energy levels.  You’ll also be more productive and enjoy improved memory and mood.
• Enhanced appearance – Sober living allows your body to utilize vitamins and minerals more effectively.  You’ll see improvements in your complexion, weight, hair, and eyes.
• Improved overall health – Eliminating drugs and alcohol from your body allows your vital organs to function properly for improved overall health and potentially extended lifespan.

Most importantly, will benefit from having you around longer, so get into rehab sooner rather than later.

Mental and Emotional Benefits of Sobriety

Typically, addiction leads to feelings of guilt, shame, and anger.  These intense emotions often lead to depression.  However, among the benefits of sobriety are the many ways your mental health will improve.  

Here are some of the mental and emotional benefits you will enjoy:

• Reduced anxiety and depression – Removing substances from your life gives you a sense of freedom, pride, and accomplishment.  These positive feelings will help eliminate the negative thoughts and emotions you struggled with during addiction.
• Improved mental clarity – Drugs and alcohol reduce your ability to make sound decisions.  Detox and rehab help your brain and body eliminate the toxins.  You’ll find that your decision-making skills and memory have improved.
• Boosted self-esteem –  Recovering from substance abuse is an achievement you will be proud of, which will boost your self-esteem and confidence.
• More fulfilling social life – After rehab, you’ll be able to mend strained or damaged relationships and enjoy spending time with friends and family once again.  You’ll be more in tune with other people’s feelings and can build stronger relationships.
• Reduced stress –  In rehab, you’ll learn how to manage stress through therapy, exercise, and meditation rather than relying on drugs or alcohol.

Studies show that most people with addictions also struggle with mental health disorders such as depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.  Addictive substances can exacerbate these disorders.  Rehab programs, however, address these co-occurring disorders along with the addiction.

Financial Benefits of Sobriety

Substance abuse is expensive in more ways than one.  The cost of the substance is only part of the problem.  You may also have paid for treatment in the ER or doctor’s office for injuries you sustained while under the influence.  Or, you’ve had to pay legal fees that resulted from driving under the influence.  Having more money is another benefit of sobriety you may not have considered.  

Here are some of the ways sober living will help you have more money:

• A more stable financial future – Sobriety helps you save money in several ways.  The money you once spent on substances, legal issues, or healthcare can be used for more important things.  You may even be able to start a savings account.
• Improved work performance – Substance abuse affects a person’s work performance and can lead to job loss and financial disaster.  Sobriety allows you to improve work performance which may lead to new career opportunities.
• Money for personal growth – The money you’re not spending on drugs or alcohol can be used to invest in personal development such as education or other meaningful pursuits.

In our rehab program, you’ll learn many life skills that aid in reestablishing your place in society.  Life skills include classes and activities in home maintenance, cooking, communication, creative thinking, problem-solving, self-control, and financial management.  

Contact Design for Change to Get Started on the Path to Sobriety

At Design for Change Recovery, hundreds of clients overcome addiction and continue to enjoy the benefits of sobriety in all aspects of their daily lives.  We would love for you to achieve the same success.  If you struggle with substance abuse, let us help you enjoy the productive, healthier future you deserve.  

Our full continuum of care is client-oriented to ensure you get the personalized treatment you need.  We are JCAHO-accredited, meaning we consistently meet the highest standards in client care and safety.  Our facility provides a comforting environment and our compassionate, skilled staff will ensure that all of your needs are met.  

Contact our Lancaster, CA facility to speak with an admission specialist. The benefits of sobriety won’t begin unless you take this first step.

Sources:

nida.nih.gov/ – The Science of Addiction Treatment and Recovery

psychologytoday.com/– Addiction and the Brain

 

drugfree.org/ – Most Expensive Addictive Substances