Rewards in Drug Rehab
What is the main purpose of drug and alcohol rehab? Simply, to change the patterns of addiction that no longer serve you. The next question I’d like to pose, is this a journey or a destination? Is there a “touchdown” of rehab or sobriety. Is there any point along this road that you can say, well that’s it, “I’ve got addiction licked,” time to move on to the next goal. Chances are for most people they would see addiction and it’s treatment more like a journey than a destination. If there is no true ending point, setting smaller measurable goals become much more important. Planning for rewards for their accomplishment is also just as important.
Often I hear people say, doing the right thing is it’s own reward. I don’t need some “treat” to keep me motivated. I’m above all that. Statements like these seem to miss the real reason for rewards. They are not meant to be some buscuit or snack that is used like training a dog. Rewards are purely meant as a celebration. We are so quick to condemn and pick apart what we do. We can all quickly point out all our mistakes and errors in are actions and behaviors. We are not so good at congratulating ourselves when we succeed. When we honor our commitments we really do need to celebrate. Especially in drug and alcohol rehab. The thing about celebrating our victories is that it gives them a chance to become real in our mind. This will increase the chance of continuing down this path of improvement.
Rewards don’t have to be selfish either. When you come through on something you have been struggling on, you may chose to buy a friend a book you think they may like. Write in the front the reason why you have purchased it for them and tell them why they are important to you and why you want to share this moment with them. In rehab, I’m not just talking about “time served” goals. Instead of stuff like, 30 days clean, how about a goal of first conversation with my family filled with joy? First time I talked with my kids clean and clear. First time I helped someone with no benefit to me. Send thank-you cards to those who have helped you as a way to celebrate. Look for ways to reward and celebrate the acheivements of the other clients in the rehab center with you.
All change is a journey, rehab and addiction treatment is no different. Don’t wait to the very end to celebrate.