No one plans to become an addict. It is an illness and not a choice. Addiction requires treatment. No one can overcome their addiction on their own. Addiction is a lifelong struggle, even if you no longer participate in the active substance abuse, it is always with you. And when you are ready, there are many options when it comes to choosing addiction treatment services.
Below are 3 ways to help stay sober when battling addiction.
1. Learn To Manage Stress
This sounds like a magic trick, but it can be done. There are many ways to manage your stress without turning to your drug of choice. Join a gym and begin an exercise program. Channeling your energy into getting fit and healthy is a better way to spend your time and manage stress.
While you are at it, start a new eating program. Eating healthy is a great way to manage stress because your body will be getting the proper nutrition and you will feel better overall.
If you need to, look for another job. Work related stress is a major concern for many individuals and the cause of a lot of substance abuse. But don’t let the act of hunting for a new job and then changing jobs stress you out.
2. Find New Friends
This one may be difficult, but a necessary change to help keep you from old behaviors. You may be ready for recovery, but in all likelihood, your friends are not. They will continue to do the same behaviors and this puts your recovery at risk. It may be difficult at first, but you need to distance yourself from people and risky behavior.
Join a group that interests you. It could be a community garden or a local chess club. Anything you enjoy or would like to learn will bring new people into your life.
Find a new hobby or activity you’ve always wanted to try. This could be anything from crafts to cooking to volunteer at a local animal shelter. The idea is to keep yourself busy, and, you will meet new people who have similar interests as you do so, you will be able to build a new circle of friends.
3. Help Someone Else
When you are consumed with your own recovery, you become preoccupied and that can lead to stress. Reach out and help someone, either someone in recovery or in the community.
Sign up to serve at a soup kitchen, a homeless shelter or at a local Veterans Home. Practice active listening when you interact with other people who are having problems.
Helping others will give you a sense of accomplishment and purpose. This will help you feel better about what you are doing and your recovery.
Don’t be afraid of relapse or making a mistake. Things happen and when they do, you move on, no big deal. Rely on your instincts and what you have learned in recovery helping you through any rough patches.