Friends and family play a vital role in helping their loved one stay sober. As you get ready to welcome your loved one home from a substance use treatment program, you probably have a mix of emotions (that’s normal!). On one hand, it will be nice to have a sense of normalcy. On the other hand, you have new challenges to face. This transitional period is crucial for sustained recovery, and what you do (and don’t do) can make a big difference in helping your loved one navigate life post-treatment. 

Below are five key steps you can take to create a positive, supportive environment and bolster your loved one’s long-term sobriety and wellness.

1. Set Realistic Expectations

Recovery is an ongoing process rather than a one-time fix. While rehab can provide vital tools and coping strategies, your loved one will continue to face daily challenges and triggers. Avoid unrealistic pressure, as slips and setbacks can happen and do not mean failure. Instead of assuming a straight path, take things one day at a time and be prepared to offer support if challenges arise. 

It’s also important to stay flexible. Emotional ups and downs are common in early recovery. Keep the dialogue open about mood changes, stressors, or cravings so that you can work through them instead of letting them fester. Additionally, take time to celebrate the milestones and improvements that your loved one has achieved, no matter how small they may be. 

2. Create a Supportive Home Environment

A stable, substance-free living space can significantly decrease the likelihood of relapse and help your loved one feel safe and supported. Start by doing a sweep of the home, removing drugs, alcohol, or paraphernalia (or keeping them out of sight). Prescription medications count, too, so be prepared to keep them in a locked drawer or cabinet. 

Promote healthy habits by stocking the kitchen with nutritious foods, planning regular meal times, and encouraging a consistent sleep schedule. This is beneficial for everyone in the household, and it will help improve resilience and emotional regulation. Additionally, maintain a consistent routine with regular times for meals, chores, and leisure activities. Structure can reduce impulsive behavior and establish normalcy in the home.

3. Encourage Ongoing Treatment and Aftercare

Recovery doesn’t end when rehab does. Therapy, support groups, and follow-up medical appointments can reinforce new coping mechanisms and accountability. Plus, if your loved one is having a harder time in recovery, aftercare services will be a built-in support tool they can turn to. Suggest support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or SMART Recovery programs. 

You might also want to look into outpatient programs, particularly if your loved one just completed a residential program. Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are a natural step down from residential programs, while standard outpatient programs (OPs) come after IOPs. Your loved one will work on a lot of the same skills; the difference is that they spend less time in OPs. The goal is to gradually transition them to everyday living. 

4. Maintain Healthy Boundaries

Although support is essential, it’s equally important to avoid enabling behaviors. Clear boundaries promote personal responsibility and respect everyone’s needs. Now is the ideal time to discuss the expectations you have for your loved one. Let them know what is and is not acceptable in your household. This might include curfews, chores, or substance use policies. 

Resist the urge to solve all problems for your loved one. Encourage self-reliance to help build their confidence and resilience. This teaches them valuable skills—and it’s easier for you, too! Also, be consistent. Once boundaries are set, follow through. Inconsistent rules or responses can create confusion and hinder recovery. 

5. Practice Self-Care and Seek Support

Caring for someone in recovery can be emotionally taxing. Neglecting your own mental and physical health can lead to burnout, resentment, or even unintentional enabling. Join support groups like Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, or other family-focused programs that provide coping strategies, shared experiences, and emotional support. 

Set time for yourself as well. There should be space in your schedule for hobbies, exercise, or relaxation. You need this time to reset so that you can be strong for your loved one. It may also be beneficial to seek professional guidance like family counseling, which can help you learn effective communication and conflict-resolution skills. 

Final Thoughts

Welcoming a loved one back from rehab is a significant milestone in their recovery journey. By setting realistic expectations, encouraging continued treatment, and maintaining healthy boundaries, you can help nurture their success. Remember that recovery is a team effort—your consistent support and compassion can make all the difference. To learn more about the outpatient programs offered by Recovery Cove, contact our team today at 484-549-COVE.