Once you complete drug rehab in Arizona and start putting the pieces of your life back together, a common question that comes up is whether or not it’s okay to start dating again. This is a normal, healthy question to ask, as it shows that you are interested in moving outside your comfort zone and establishing meaningful connections with other people.
That being said, most experts recommend waiting at least one year after rehab to start dating. Giving yourself this time will allow you to attract the right person into your life when the time is right.
What Can Happen if You Start Dating Too Soon?
When you first leave a treatment center in Arizona, it’s normal to feel like a new person. However, this ‘pink cloud period’ is often short-lived. Relapse rates are high in the first year of recovery because you’re learning how to cope without turning to drugs and alcohol. Dating can add to this roller coaster of emotions and put you at a greater risk for relapse.
One year can sound like a long time, but you don’t need anyone coming in between you and your recovery. This is your time to focus on yourself, attend your meetings and celebrate your milestones. And remember, one year is just a general rule – some people need more.
Benefits of Waiting to Date in Recovery
Rather than looking at dating as something that was taken away from you, change your perspective. Eventually, you will be in the dating scene, so you want to be the best version of yourself. Here are some of the benefits of waiting to date in recovery:
- Better sense of self. You need time to get comfortable with your new sober self. What do you like to do in your free time? What are your goals? How do you manage stress?
- Get financially stable. Waiting to date gives you time to get back on your feet. After all, you’ll need money for dinners, movie nights, weekend getaways and more.
- Know your limits. It’s hard to date when local bars and nightclubs are sources of temptation. Over time, you can better manage your triggers and enjoy more fun on your dates.
- Attract the right person. If you don’t know yourself, how can you attract someone who is good for you? Waiting lets you grow more confident in who you are and the best partner for you.
- Let the brain heal. It takes time for the brain to heal after a drug or alcohol addiction. Give yourself this space to heal – you’ll feel better and have an easier time managing your emotions.
Remember, There is No Harm in Waiting
Just because you shouldn’t date during the first year of recovery doesn’t mean you can’t go out and have meaningful relationships with others. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. As long as you’re surrounding yourself with positive influences, there’s nothing wrong with hanging out with other people. If a relationship is meant to be, that person will be waiting for you when the time is right.
Finding purpose in pain is what Jonathon does best. He is a strong advocate for those suffering from substance use disorders. As a person in recovery, Jonathon knows how important it is to receive empathy and compassion. He recognizes that each person comes from a different set of circumstances and deserves to be valued and respected.
With a fresh perspective and compassionate attitude, Jonathon works closely with clients to help them let go of the past and know when to take necessary risks. The recovery process is ongoing, which means people need to move forward while applying the skills learned in treatment. Jonathon is a great motivator when it comes time for this!
Jonathon also places emphasis on the family unit and how it can make or break the recovery experience. Individuals with active, supportive families have far better outcomes. Jonathon realizes that it’s impossible to move mountains overnight, but with the right support team and positive attitude, anything is possible.
