Attending college, returning to school, or preparing for your vocation while in drug and alcohol rehab can be an amazing and rewarding experience. Life goals keep you focused on the future and motivated in sobriety while enhancing future employment opportunities. Many young adults struggling with addiction find sobriety college comforting because it gives them an external focus during recovery. It can also be a challenge, however, to balance the recovery process with academic pursuits. Remember that sobriety is your number one priority, and you must be vigilantly aware of the potential relapse triggers and stressful situations that can arise during college.Tips for a Successful School Year
As you approach a new school year, keep in mind the following five tips for academic success:
1. Take responsibility for yourself. Just as you have learned during addiction recovery, YOU are responsible for you. Seek help when you need it, manage your time, and don't let others dictate your priorities.
2. Have a plan to deal with stress. The inevitable pressure you'll feel when a paper is due or a test is looming can derail your recovery if you don't have a plan. Create a list of coping mechanisms that you can fall back on when stress is mounting. This may include massage, yoga, acupuncture, deep breathing, or a walk outside.
3. Optimize your workspace. Your desk or work area should provide easy access to the resources and supplies you need. Consider adding something beautiful and inspiring, like flowers, plants, or artwork. If you work best in busy environments, take an occasional coffee shop outing and soak up the energy it provides. If you are easily distracted, find a private corner or room and keep desk decor to a minimum.
4. Practice self-care. College students are not known for prioritizing self-care. When you add addiction recovery into the mix, self-care becomes even more critical. Make time every week to do something you enjoy. Studies show that people who practice self-care are more productive at work, at school, and in addiction treatment.
5. Develop a peer network. Engage your peers by becoming involved in study groups. Plan recreational outings with your sobriety college friends. Attending college during rehab gives you the unique opportunity to connect with other young adults who are balancing addiction recovery with school and vocational planning.
To learn more about our sobriety college program, sober living communities, or Hope Academy's college house, call 866.930.4673 today!
