How to Deal With Homesickness in Rehab

Content medically reviewed by Vicky Magobet, PMHNP-BC, on December 10. 2022.

Although substance abuse treatment programs provide care and support for members, loneliness in rehab is common. Many people in addiction treatment find homesickness to be one of the most challenging obstacles they face. 

Fortunately, it is possible to cope with and overcome homesickness during treatment. Once you learn how to deal with missing home, you can complete your treatment program successfully and focus on your recovery. 

Why Inpatient Rehab Treatment?

Going to inpatient rehab has various benefits that may help you start on the journey to recovery. Inpatient rehab provides a controlled environment free of distractions. Pursuing recovery means leaving behind problematic triggers, including people, places and belongings, so this type of controlled environment is essential.

Why Do People Get Homesick in Rehab?

Many people deal with homesickness in rehab because they don't have their normal support group to lean on when they feel lonely. Some find it helpful to seek support from other program members dealing with similar struggles. These people may become long-term supporters after treatment ends.

Tips for Overcoming Homesickness in Rehab

You can deal with homesickness in rehab by:

  • Writing: Sending letters to loved ones can be a therapeutic way to help you process or work through feelings.
  • Enjoying music: You can bring an MP3 player — as long as it isn't connected to the internet — with you to rehab. 
  • Making friends: Forging relationships with others may help quell the loneliness you feel by offering additional support.

Turn to Diamond House Detox When Coping With Homesickness in Rehab 

If you or someone you care about feels homesick in rehab, trust the team of skilled professionals at Diamond House Detox to guide you toward wellness and recovery. We offer inpatient treatment programs and specialize in co-occurring disorders or the combination of mental illness and substance use. All of our clients have access to a Marriage Family Therapist, Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Medical Assistants, Nurses and an Addiction Psychiatrist.

Our compassionate team will help you overcome homesickness in rehab with individualized care for medications and aftercare plans that focus on mental health and substance use. At Diamond House Detox, you'll also have access to a chef and private rooms, as well as on-site support meetings and group therapy.

Learn more about our addiction programs, treatment options and admission in California when you contact a representative online today. 

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Diamond House Detox
Vicky is a board certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She began her nursing career in healthcare by working in the intensive care unit, and then an inpatient psychiatric hospital. After realizing the mental health needs of both the patients and the families she served, she became a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Throughout her experience working with clients, she has developed a passion for those with dual diagnoses and specializes in helping individuals recognize the issues driving their substance use. This recognition has been crucial to the individual’s success in treatment. Vicky opened Diamond House Detox so that she can address these issues early on in a therapeutic environment to allow clients to transition to the next level in their recovery.
Vicky Magobet
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