When you have a substance use disorder moving can and will cause stress that at times seems a bit over the top. As mentioned previously, any stressful transition can be managed effectively if you are prepared and mindful of the steps you need to take to prepare. Accepting that you have not handled these situations well in the past is key to preventing a relapse. Without this acceptance, it is way too easy to slip back into unhealthy patterns of behavior. If you convince yourself that you have it all under control, you can let your program slip or slide you are at high risk to lose all that you have worked hard to gain.
Remember, you can do this and you have resources available to assist you. You are not weak or broken, you are empowered now and have the ability to make healthy choices in your life. Remember that your substance use disorder moves right along with you when you move! Don’t get caught in the trap that many do and believe that a move will be only thing necessary to get your life back on track. That is what is a called a Geographic and has proven to be very ineffective in the management of a substance misuse disorder.
Here are a few helpful tips:
Always remember that all change creates an element of stress. You have the power to turn it into a positive situation and create an opportunity for growth!