7 Healthy Ways to Overcome Blue Moments at Inpatient Rehab

Going to inpatient drug rehab is one of the best things you can do for your health and overall livelihood when you’re intent on beating addiction. Since inpatient rehab often separates you from loved ones so you can focus fully on recovery, it’s not uncommon for some patients to feel sad, frustrated, or restless throughout treatment. Fortunately, there are things you can do to overcome these blue moments so you can stay focused on achieving sobriety from drugs and alcohol.

If you’re suffering from addiction and aren’t sure where to turn for help, call our 24/7 confidential helpline immediately at 800-430-1407Who Answers?. One of our caring addiction counselors will discuss your options for inpatient drug rehab centers devoted to guiding you along the path to sobriety.

Here are seven healthy ways to overcome moments of frustration and sadness during your stay at inpatient drug rehab.

1. Exercise

Exercise naturally boosts your mood, confidence, and self-esteem thanks to the endorphins your body releases as you work out. When you’re feeling emotional or stressed, go for a walk or run, visit the gym at your rehab center, or do body-weight exercises in your room. Rehab staff can help you establish a daily exercise routine that naturally balances your mood.

2. Recreational Therapy

Some inpatient centers offer horseback riding.

Many inpatient rehab centers offer recreational therapies designed to help you overcome addiction. Recreational therapies expose you to new interests and hobbies that replace substance abuse after leaving rehab, and range from horseback riding, to arts and crafts, to fencing. Ask rehab staff about available recreational therapies at your facility.

3. Talking

Discussing your emotions and challenges with others can be therapeutic, especially in an inpatient drug rehab setting. In fact, addiction counselors are available to listen and talk to you about your problems. Talk to counselors or speak up in support groups when you feel the need to talk about something that’s bothering you.

4. Healthy Food

Some inpatient drug rehab centers have nutrition counselors on staff that teach you about healthy foods that naturally boost your mood. For instance, healthy, whole foods such as fruits and vegetables are loaded with nutrients that improve mood, brain health, and energy levels. Head to the cafeteria to grab healthy foods and snacks when you need a pick-me-up.

5. Comfortable Clothing

Some people turn to comfort foods at times of stress, while others hunt down their most favorite comfortable clothing. Comfortable clothing can help you feel more relaxed, which is important while you’re going through detox and withdrawal from drugs and alcohol. Next time you’re feeling blue, consider taking a shower and changing into comfortable clothes that can help you feel more at home.

Tips for Dealing with Social Isolation During Inpatient Rehab

6. Journaling

Writing and journaling are often encouraged at inpatient drug rehab centers, and sometimes offered as recreational therapies. Journaling allows you to express your thoughts and emotions on paper, and creates a sense of release. Bring a few blank journals or notebooks to rehab, or ask rehab staff about activities that involve journaling.

7. Planning for Sobriety

Recovering from addiction at inpatient drug rehab gives you plenty of time to prepare for sober living after leaving rehab. On your most challenging days, think forward to the future and about the changes you’ll make in your life after completing treatment. Many times, this activity can motivate you to stick with rehab, and influence you to accomplish your most important life goals.

Nobody should ever have to overcome addiction on their own without help, including you. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 800-430-1407Who Answers? to speak with an addiction counselor about inpatient drug rehab centers dedicated to guiding you along the path to lifelong sobriety.