How Do I Adjust to Life After DUI Jail Time?

August 11, 2023

Written By: Buena Vista Recovery

When you are serving jail time for driving under the influence (DUI), your freedom can seem so far away. You think about the freedom you will experience when your time is served. Life after DUI jail time will take a moment to readjust, and exploring your options for aftercare is essential in making sure that you do not lose your freedom, again.

One of the ways that you can make sure that you do not lose your freedom is to explore the benefits of inpatient rehabilitation after jail time. This will provide you with the tools you need to overcome possible future relapses.

Understanding Feelings After DUI Jail Time

You got caught driving under the influence and now you may be contemplating whether or not you have an alcohol addiction. Perhaps you are mad at the police because “they could have let you go” or you feel that you were not treated fairly. Many emotions can surface after DUI jail time. After all, you had some alone time to think.

Emotions define and give people certain characteristics. While it may be hard to experience your emotions, you need to explore them about your environment. When you do not identify your feelings, you are in danger of suppressing them, which can lead to negative actions.

One of the best ways to explore your feelings is to talk to a professional therapist. They will help you to navigate and explore emotions that maybe even you do not understand.

Rehabilitation After DUI Jail Time

Adjusting to life outside of DUI jail time, while attempting to live an alcohol-free life, can be a complex process that requires support and connection. A rehabilitation program can be beneficial for anyone that is trying to build a new life after DUI jail time. While many offenders are incarcerated, that does not mean that you cannot cultivate a fresh start after jail time.

Enrolling in rehabilitation after DUI jail time is encouraged because the risk of relapse will be decreased and help offenders prioritize their recovery while they adjust to life on the outside. Exploring the underlying causes of alcohol use is important to combat addiction.

Be Aware of Depression

There is a stigma associated with DUI jail time. This is not talked about often and can be a trigger of depression. Words matter and how you describe your charges can impact how you view yourself. DUI jail time can impact your entire life and be hard to accept when you have worked so hard in treatment. 

Sometimes, depression can seep into your life without recognizing it. Symptoms of depression may include:

  • Feelings of hopelessness
  • Feeling “empty”
  • Loss of pleasure in activities
  • Decreased energy or fatigue
  • Feeling slowed down
  • Sleep problems
  • Increased or decreased appetite
  • Difficulty remembering or making decisions
  • Thoughts of suicide 

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out for support. At Buena Vista Recovery, we understand the difficulties associated with DUI jail time and how depression can affect an individual. 

Effective Communication

Communication in recovery is the foundation on which your toolbox of skills will originate. Furthermore, it is the key to establishing healthy coping skills and exploring your wants and needs. 

During treatment, communication skills are critical because it opens up the door to expressing yourself by identifying wants or needs throughout the process. Those who participate effectively will discuss hard topics and process events that they more than likely would not have done otherwise. 

Connections in Rehabilitation

As humans, we are social by nature and need connection. You might fall into the category that you are just not a people person and would rather be alone, or perhaps you are a social butterfly. Wherever you land, connections are no less important for either one. There is nothing like feeling lonely when you are alone.

First, human connection is when you feel valued and seen by another human. This is important in recovery because most times, the addiction took over from valuing anything else. 

Secondly, the human connection makes you feel heard and gives you a sense of belonging. You could be hard on yourself and need people to uplift you.

Buena Vista Recovery and DUI Jail Time

You may feel lonely and afraid. This is a delicate space in your life. You have to make some changes and are wondering how to figure these things out. DUI jail time could make you feel embarrassed and, maybe, you are hesitant to reach out for help. Buena Vista Recovery specializes in compassion and will meet you where you are on your journey. Sometimes, all you need is an extra hand of support. We will help you through this and, if we cannot, then we will connect you with someone who can.

You are never alone, so do not be afraid. All you have to do is dial those numbers or send an email. If you or someone you know is struggling, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Facing DUI jail time can leave a person feeling lonely and disappointed in themselves. Sometimes it remains a secret until the court date. You do not have to go through this alone. No matter where you live or who you are, Buena Vista Recovery will support you every step of the way. There are many services that we offer to accommodate your needs. You will always be our first priority, no matter where you are in your journey. We believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. You matter. Your situation matters. Call Buena Vista Recovery to connect with master-level professionals who will guide you to your best life. Give us a call at (480) 741-9414 today!