Activity Scheduling & Behavior Activation
At Deslongchamps Recovery, we work with approaches that are well-researched, practical, and proven to support long-term addiction recovery. One of those approaches is Activity Scheduling, a core part of Behavioral Activation, which has strong evidence in the treatment of substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Why Activity Scheduling Matters in Recovery
Addiction doesn’t just take substances away—it takes time, structure, meaning, and connection. When the substance is removed, many people are left with long stretches of unstructured time, low motivation, emotional numbness, or intense feelings. Research consistently shows that this gap is one of the biggest relapse risks.
Behavioral Activation works by changing behavior first, rather than waiting for motivation to magically appear. Studies show that when people intentionally engage in healthy, value-based activities:
Cravings decrease
Mood improves
Depression and anxiety symptoms reduce
Confidence and self-efficacy increase
Relapse risk goes down
In simple terms: doing healthy actions helps the brain heal, even when motivation is low.
How This Directly Helps You in Addiction Recovery
When you schedule meaningful activities:
Your brain begins to relearn natural reward, instead of relying on substances.
Idle time—one of the most common triggers for relapse—is reduced.
You build predictability and safety, which calms the nervous system.
You regain a sense of purpose and momentum, one step at a time.
You don’t have to “feel ready” first. The structure comes before the feeling—and the feeling follows.
What Activity Scheduling Looks Like at Deslongchamps Recovery
We don’t believe in forcing busy schedules or unrealistic expectations. We help you:
Start small and achievable
Identify activities aligned with your values
Balance responsibility, pleasure, and rest
Learn how to adjust when motivation dips
Practice consistency—not perfection
This process is guided, supportive, and individualized. Over time, these activities become habits, and habits become a new way of living.
Living After Addiction Is a Skill
Recovery isn’t just about stopping a substance—it’s about learning how to live again. That takes practice, patience, and structure. Activity Scheduling gives you a roadmap when things feel overwhelming or empty.
At Deslongchamps Recovery, we walk with you as you rebuild a life that feels stable, meaningful, and worth protecting. You don’t have to figure this out alone—and you don’t have to wait until you feel better to begin.