Lifeskills development is part of the transitional care program at LEAD Recovery Center as well as at many other treatment programs. Recovery for substance use disorders includes more areas of life than just drinking and using. Countless other areas of life are affected because they are generally neglected and not seen as important. Setting up a house and home can have a tremendous affect on recovery. Taking pride in our home environment boosts confidence and self-esteem, which is an ongoing challenge in growth throughout recovery. Creating a functional space that is inviting, comforting, functional, and attractive can make more of a difference than some might realize. Much of the skills developed in recovery focus on stress management. Whether we realize it or not, we keep the small stressors of our home in the back of our mind- wishing that we were better organized, had an environment we like looking at, and knowing exactly where we put things when we go to look for them. All of these small organization and decorating efforts contribute overall to a positive environment for letting go of the small stuff and focusing on recovery.
Today’s home organization blog is going to focus on the bathroom. Hygienic practices are a cornerstone for good recovery. Cleanliness, ritual, and routine are components in life that many recovering addicts and alcoholics are missing. Long-term drug and alcohol abuse also has a way of eliminating hygienic practices or worsening hygienic conditions, like dental hygiene. Often, an inspiration for not participating in good hygiene behavior is a messy and unmanageable bathroom. Bathrooms should be stocked with essential items:
- Toilet paper
- Toothbrush, floss, toothpaste, mouthwash
- Handwashing soap
- Clean towels
- Toilet brush, plunger, deodorizing spray
- Shower products: shampoo, conditioner, body wash
- Cleaning products
Decorating the bathroom is a matter of function and attraction. Having a place to put everything means having a place to find everything. Instead of having the whole bathroom be a storage unit- with bottles and products on every ledge- try buying organizing baskets or drawer organizers. Over the toilet cabinets can create a lot of extra space as well. In the shower, don’t line tub edges or window sills with products. Instead, have just one or two bottles at a time and throw away others when empty. Try an over the handle shower caddy. Use hooks for towels instead of bars so that towels dry quickly and you don’t have to worry about not folding your towel nicely over the bar. Make a bathroom rule: after you use it, put it away.
At LEAD Recovery Center, a multi-phase transitional living program, we focus on growth and development as our clients make the journey toward autonomy. Growth in our program is realized through an intensive clinical approach with a strong emphasis on living skills and natural adventure. By facing challenges and accomplishments, our clients become leaders and mentors to others. Call us today for information: 800-380-0012
