Communicate Relationships require communication. The process of rebuilding relationships involves reopening those lines of communication. Let them know you sought help for your addiction and are working to piece your life back together and want to mend your relationship. Communicate this message in person, if possible. If that’s not an option, send a letter, an email – even a phone call or text message. 2. Ask for Forgiveness – And be Honest If you’ve struggled with addiction, chances are, you’ve struggled with denial. In order to live without denial, you must acknowledge that you have made mistakes and in turn, hurt the people around you. Even if friends or family members are slow or hesitant to forgive, know that by apologizing and asking, you are freeing yourself from the guilt. 3. Be Active and Intentional When people are not active within them, relationships suffer. If your marriage was damaged because of your absence or neglect, take the opportunity to spend more time with your spouse. If your relationship with your kids was minimized, take time to get involved in their lives and their interests. Show up for the baseball practice. Make surprise dinner reservations. Leave a handwritten card on the countertop. Be intentional. 4. Attend Meetings Getting involved in support groups after rehab shows that you are serious about your sobriety. Support or advice from others in the same situation can go a long way and help keep you on track. 5. Don’t Expect a Change Immediately – and Be Prepared for some Resistance It’s important to remember your friends, family, and colleagues didn’t go to rehab and didn’t have the same opportunity you had to heal themselves. While you were in treatment and recovering, they continued living the same way they did when you left. Don’t be surprised or offended when you are met with hesitation or resistance, and those around you don’t believe what you say, or don’t trust your actions. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, don’t lose hope. We are here to help. Contact our office today to get in touch with a specialist. To book an appointment, call us or visit us online! We serve patients from Chattanooga TN, Fairmount TN, Walden TN, Harrison TN, Middle Valley TN, Signal Mountain, TN and surrounding areas.