Treating addiction has to be about more than just addressing the physical symptoms of substance abuse. While that is a solid foundation, there is a lot more to complete recovery. A bonus is when treatment programs emphasize life skills training. At Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida, learning helpful life skills is part of the program.

Relearning Effective Communication Techniques

Man looking off in the distance needs life skills training as well as rehabIt is common for recovery to include a focus on better communication and reaching out to loved ones. While that is a good idea, clients should understand how to do just that. That’s why communication techniques are a big part of life skills training.

Some individuals who are reliant on drugs and alcohol may have lost communication skills while under the influence. Asking for support or making a genuine connection can be tough for anyone, but it will be easier if you have the right communication tools.

Being able to communicate well with others can also help you find a job or gain acceptance in new social circles. A sense of belonging and contribution is essential to a fulfilling life, so it is vital that clients learn how to establish links and become part of the outside world.

Increasing Personal Responsibility

Addicts can sometimes feel like a victim. While addiction is not a choice, it is still vital for clients to take personal responsibility for their future actions. One of the most valuable coping skills for recovery a person can obtain is learning how to take personal responsibility.

You might know someone who regularly makes excuses for his or her behavior. They might be late because of too much traffic, or they might be behind on rent because their boss cut back on their work hours. In recovery, there is no room for these kinds of excuses. Otherwise, they could be used as a way to justify relapse.

In life skills training, clients can learn how to avoid excuses and take responsibility. Sometimes that means accepting their imperfections, or it could mean learning to say sorry.

Learning to Manage Time

Time moves differently when a person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In sobriety, it can be challenging to manage time and avoid being bored. Being too overbooked can be stressful, but being bored can also cause problems. Learning to manage time effectively can help clients find the comfortable space in the middle of both extremes.

One way to manage time is to keep and maintain a calendar. This allows you to schedule time for yourself, whether that includes meditation or cooking time. It also allows you to make time for work, personal growth, social and family events and support groups.

Taking Control of Health and Wellness

Getting sober is a vital step on the road to total wellness. However, health is about more than just what you don’t put into your body. In addition to being sober, clients need to learn how to eat well and rest effectively.

Life skills training can include a focus on nutrition. Clients can learn how to eat a healthy diet, and they can even learn to cook a few simple meals. Being hungry is a common factor in relapse, so learning how to prepare healthy cuisine can be a big part of lasting recovery.

Clients also need to learn how to remain healthy. To start, that can include getting a full night’s sleep. That might mean relearning a set schedule for each day and establishing a healthy routine. It might also include regular exercise and annual medical checks.

Life Skills Training at Beaches Recovery

At Beaches Recovery, life skills training is part of the treatment curriculum. Rehab is not limited to the physical aspects of recovery, and treatment can vary depending on the needs of each client. While in recovery, these are some of the therapies that might supplement life skills courses:

Life skills training helps you become healthier, stronger and more confident. Including life skills in rehab is a smart choice for anyone. Call Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida at 866.605.0532 today and learn to manage your life.