Celebrations Festivals in Rehab Can Be Therapeutic
People often yearn to be with their families during festivals for the profound sense of warmth, comfort, and belonging that family gatherings provide. Festivals are a time of celebration and tradition, where cherished memories are created, and family bonds are strengthened. Being with family during these occasions offers a deep emotional connection and a reminder of the importance of kinship. It’s a chance to share traditions, stories, and cultural practices that have been passed down through generations, creating a sense of continuity and heritage. The support, love, and togetherness that family members offer during festive seasons make these moments even more special and meaningful, reaffirming the significance of family in our lives.
However, for those in rehab facilities, it can be challenging to maintain the same level of enthusiasm during these times. But the truth is, being in a rehab facility does not have to be a dampener during the festival season. It can offer a unique opportunity for reflection, connection, and personal growth. Rehabilitation centres have evolved over the years in terms of their treatment modules and celebrations during festivals are an integral part of the therapy.
The staff at rehab facilities understand the importance of maintaining a positive and supportive atmosphere during festivals. They often organize special activities, events, and sober celebrations to ensure that individuals in rehab feel a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Rehab: How it Helps-
1. Connecting with fellow residents
Rehab facilities often have a strong sense of community. During the festive season, this community can become an extended family. Celebrating with fellow residents by organizing group activities, sharing stories, and enjoying meals together. These connections can be a vital source of support and encouragement during the recovery process.
2. Embracing sober festivities
While it may be challenging to partake in traditional festive activities involving physical activities like dancing etc, there are plenty of sober alternatives that can be equally enjoyable. Engaging in arts and crafts, talent shows, or taking part in group therapy sessions that focus on coping with cravings and triggers during this season. These activities can help build new, healthy traditions.
3. Being together with loved ones
Being in rehab doesn’t mean people have to isolate themselves from their loved ones during the festive season. Most facilities allow residents to have visitors and spend quality time with family and friends. Sharing your journey with them and seeking their support can be incredibly meaningful.
4. Balancing nutrition
Nutrition plays a vital role in the recovery process during rehab, and it is especially important during festivals when there may be a temptation to indulge in less healthy foods and drinks. Rehab facilities typically have specific strategies and guidelines to ensure that nutrition is well taken care of during these festive times.
What do experts say?
Radhika Dave a Bengaluru-based counsellor says that being in a rehab facility during festivals has its own set of challenges and benefits.
While the challenges mostly include the social and cultural pressures associated with celebrations which take a toll on the emotional health of a person, she says that there is a need to focus on relapse prevention strategies and develop a strong support network within the rehab facility.
She recommends that individuals in rehab should engage in self-care, including mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques, to help cope with the emotional challenges of the festive season.
Dr. David Sack, MD from the Promises Treatment Centers, USA, stresses the importance of planning and maintaining a structured daily routine during the festivals while in rehab. He also advises individuals to communicate openly with treatment professionals about any concerns, as this can lead to more tailored support.
How do residents feel?
Geeta Vashisht a 59-year-old homemaker from Hyderabad shares her experience of celebrating Diwali while she was admitted to a continuum care facility for knee replacement rehab.
“On the day of Diwali, I woke up feeling very low as I wasn’t with my children. For me, any festival is incomplete without them. Additionally, I knew that they wouldn’t be feeling good either as there would be no celebrations or any traditions at home without me. But to my utter surprise, the facility management arranged for my family to visit and stay with me throughout the evening and the staff joined us to draw Rangoli and distribute sweets to everyone. My Diwali was complete!”
In conclusion, celebrating festivals in a rehab setting is not only a good idea but can also be a transformative experience for individuals on the path to recovery. The structured environment and the guidance of rehab professionals help individuals navigate the challenges of the holiday season and reinforce their commitment to recovery. While the circumstances may be different, the potential for joy, gratitude, and personal transformation remains very much alive, making celebrating festivals in rehab a valuable and positive choice on the road to healing.
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BY: Sukino
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