Getting back on track after struggling with substance abuse can be difficult. Maybe you’ve been in and out of rehab, or perhaps you’ve just been trying to quit on your own. Either way, it’s a process. Here are some ways to make recovery easier.
1. Seek professional help.
If you feel like you’re struggling to quit on your own, seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms and overcome any triggers or temptations.
This can also entail checking yourself in a rehabilitation center if you need more structure and support to stay on track. These facilities often offer detoxification programs, therapy, and counseling services to help you get sober and stay sober.
This can be quite helpful because if you’re constantly being reminded of your substance abuse, it can make quitting even harder.
2. Set realistic goals.
Another step is to set some realistic goals for yourself. If you’re trying to quit smoking, don’t try to go from a pack a day to zero cigarettes overnight. Set a goal of cutting down by half or quitting for two days out of the week. Small goals are more achievable and will help you stay on track.
Likewise, if you’re trying to quit drinking, set a goal of only drinking on weekends or limiting yourself to two drinks per day. Again, these are more realistic goals that won’t make quitting as daunting and will help you stick to your sobriety plan.
Regardless of what your goals are, be sure to write them down and refer to them often to help keep you accountable. This way, you can track your progress and see how far you’ve come.
3. Find a support system.
Surround yourself with people who will support your sobriety, whether that’s friends, family, or fellow sober comrades. These people will help you stay accountable and motivated on your journey.
For instance, if you’re trying to quit drinking, find a friend who doesn’t drink or go to AA meetings. If you’re trying to quit smoking, avoid places where people smoke and instead hang out with people who don’t. The idea is to surround yourself with people who will help rather than hinder your sobriety.
In addition, there are many online support groups available that can provide assistance and advice 24/7. To find one that’s right for you, simply do a quick search on the internet or ask your therapist for recommendations.
4. Get active.
Exercise is a great way to boost your mood and stay healthy while overcoming addiction. Taking up a new hobby can also be a great way to keep busy and distracted from any temptations.
Both of these activities can help release endorphins which are often associated with pain-relieving and mood-boosting effects. They can also help reduce stress and anxiety, two common triggers for substance abuse. Plus, they’ll help keep you physically healthy, which is vital for overall well-being.
Just remember to start slow and gradually increase your activity level as you feel more comfortable. And be sure to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you’re struggling with mental health issues.
5. Change your lifestyle.
If you’re used to partying and drinking every weekend, it’s time to change your lifestyle. This means finding new hobbies and activities that don’t revolve around substance abuse.
It also means avoiding places and people that trigger your temptation to use. This might mean avoiding bars, clubs, and parties altogether. Or it might just mean limiting your exposure to these things and only going out in moderation.
Making lifestyle changes can be difficult, but it’s necessary if you want to overcome addiction. After all, you can’t keep doing the same things and expect different results.
6. Be honest with yourself.
The road to recovery is not always linear. There will be ups and downs, good days and bad days. The most important thing is to be honest with yourself about where you’re at in your journey and ask for help when needed.
If you find yourself slipping up, don’t be too hard on yourself. Just get back on track and continue working towards your goals. Remember that sobriety is a process, not a destination, and that every day is a new opportunity to start fresh.
And as long as you’re honest with yourself and committed to your sobriety, you’ll eventually get back to the person you once were. The most important thing is to never give up on yourself. You can do it!
Substance abuse is a difficult thing to overcome, but it is possible. By setting realistic goals, finding a supportive network of people, getting active, being honest with yourself, and seeking professional help, you can begin the journey to returning to your old self again. Sobriety is attainable—believe in yourself and take it one day at a time.
