Did you know that one of the main reasons why people relapse is due to having unrealistic expectations? Expectations are important to have, as they guide your progress in addiction recovery. However, having unrealistic expectations can set you up for failure. If you set goals that you can’t reach, it’s going to leave you frustrated and stressed, decreasing your chances for success.
Let’s explore more on this issue so that you can develop the healthy expectations you need to thrive in addiction treatment.
What are Unrealistic Expectations?
Unrealistic expectations outpace reality. They happen when you don’t know what the recovery process entails, or when you expect things to turn out a certain way. Then, when you don’t meet the expectation, you end up feeling disappointed. While this isn’t productive for anyone, it can be particularly unhealthy when you’re leaving drug rehab in Agoura Hills.
Here are some examples of unrealistic expectations in addiction recovery:
- Expecting recovery to be easy
- Expecting treatment to solve all of your problems
- Thinking you can handle recovery on your own
- Expecting recovery to be a short process
- Believing you won’t have to work on recovery once treatment is complete
- Thinking life will go back to ‘normal’ after treatment
- Assuming people will automatically regain trust in you
Unrealistic expectations are common in addiction recovery. Some people aren’t aware of how much work goes into treatment and recovery. Others aren’t prepared for the work they’ll have to do when they return home. And others assume the recovery trajectory is always trending positively when in reality, it’s a series of ups and downs.
Why is it Unhealthy to Have Unrealistic Expectations?
If you don’t set realistic expectations, you’ll make the recovery process more stressful. And this can have a negative impact on your sobriety. For example, you might judge yourself harshly, put yourself under tremendous pressure or cause unnecessary disappointment.
What’s most concerning is that unrealistic expectations can set you up for relapse. If you fail to meet your goals, you might feel it’s best to throw in the towel and revert back to old habits and patterns of behavior.
On the other hand, when you set realistic expectations, you’ll have a better chance of success. And you’ll feel happier, too! You’ll be able to acknowledge your progress, reach out for support when you need it and face disruptions.
Tips for Setting Realistic Expectations in Recovery
As you set expectations for yourself, here are some things to think about:
- Make healthy habits a priority
- Identify your relapse triggers
- Learn from previous expectations
- Set expectations for all aspects of recovery
- Focus on self-care practices
- Build a strong support system
- Take one day at a time
Awakenings Treatment Center can help you set realistic expectations for your recovery. Contact our admissions department to learn more about your treatment options and how you can succeed in drug rehab in Agoura Hills.
