Introduction

The Freshman Year (9 months) of the program is a challenging yet crucial period, focusing on:

• Detoxification and Withdrawal: The first few weeks is often the most physically intense as the body eliminates toxins, and withdrawal symptoms peak. It is crucial to meet with a physician and psychiatrist to see if there are any medications, vitamins or supplements that can alleviate the symptoms. There is a list of common vitamins and supplements in the packet, it is recommended to discuss these and any others with your doctor and/or psychiatrist.

• Adjusting to Life Without Substances: The brain needs time to adapt, leading to potential emotional fluctuations and difficulties handling simple situations. It is important to get connected with a therapist as soon as possible. The therapists at Carpe Vitam Institute specialize in addictions, as well as issues men specifically struggle with. It is recommended to use the therapists on campus, but we do have a list of therapists on the Resource Page if a different one is desired, 

• Building a Support System: Surrounding oneself with positive influences is essential to combat cravings and prevent isolation. Each day should involve some kind of support, such as church, NA/AA meetings or speaking to your coach or pastor.  

• Developing New Routines and Habits:  Each day a schedule should be written out until healthy habits are established. There are example schedules in the packet, but each day should be written out by you. Practicing self-care and setting boundaries is a healthy start to recovery. 

• Managing Emotional Shifts: Expecting a rollercoaster of emotions, including feelings of euphoria (sometimes called "pink cloud syndrome") and struggles with anger, anxiety, and depression, is important.

• Understanding Relapse Factors: Recognizing and avoiding triggers, as well as developing coping mechanisms, are vital for long-term sobriety. 

Expectations and goals

The expectation is to give 100%, and do not give up. Perfection is not a requirement, but determination is. If you are doing better today than you were yesterday, then you are succeeding. The goal is to take it one day at a time. Every day is going to have unexpected challenges and situations happen. Remember to keep going. The hardest part about the first quarter is establishing new habits and sticking to a schedule. It is advised to stay on campus for the first quarter, if not longer, for this reason. For some that is not an option, which is why we offer outpatient options with full access to the facility.  Some outpatient participants already have resources, like a therapist or a gym membership for example, if those are better options to fulfill the requirements, than use them. However, all options need to be approved with the assigned coach beforehand. 

There is a list of what needs to be done each quarter. It is advised to follow the schedule that is provided as closely as possible in the first quarter. Most of the schedule can be done on campus, but it can be flexible depending on individual situations. It is important to stay busy and focused, especially in the freshman year. If you have any questions, please reach out to your coach, for anything. 

Course materials

Required materials

· Bible

· Notebook

· Pen (s)

·  ID Badge

·  Physical Books for the reading assignments (NO AUDIO or E-BOOKS)

· Workbooks for Schedule, Food Log, Morning Journal, ADL’s, Mind Mapping and Reading Assignments, Bible Assignment, Educational Courses, and Podcast.

Optional materials

· Vitamins and Supplements (After consulting with a medical professional)