Those who are in recovery from addiction are probably aware that each day is a challenge. Many people face the struggle of triggers, stress, and cravings every day. Some people wonder how they can stay sober for years to come when every day is hard. Fortunately, there are a few tips that everyone can follow that can help them not only get clean but stay clean as well. With a little guidance and help, everyone can stay on the road to addiction recovery, helping to build a better life for not only them but also their family members and friends.
Know the Signs of a Pending Relapse
There is a saying that relapse has begun before someone ever picks up that vice or addictive substance again. This is because people relapse in their mind before they relapse for real. Therefore, it is important for everyone to know the signs and symptoms of a pending relapse. Some of the most common signs that someone is struggling include isolation, being angry, putting up defenses, not eating well, having trouble sleeping, and dangerous mood swings. These are often the groundwork for a pending relapse. Loved ones who notice these mental health problems need to intervene quickly to make sure they get help.
Increased Self-Awareness for Relapse Prevention
In addition, it is important for someone to increase their own self-awareness. In addition to noticing these signs, it is important for people to expect themselves to be a little bit anxious or depressed from time to time. It is just as important for people to know how to deal with these issues. When someone is newly sober, they need to find other ways to handle these emotions. This might mean taking a walk, going out with friends, or talking to a counselor. There are going to be good days and bad days. At the same time, a bad day doesn’t have to mean that someone suffers a relapse. Learn how to face these issues appropriately.
Fill Up Space
One of the most important parts of staying clean is filling up free time with other activities. Boredom is a part of one’s journey to a full recovery; however, it can also be a threat. Try to avoid feeling boredom for too long. There is nothing wrong with sleeping, but there are other ways to be productive as well. Think about exercising, socializing, and picking up new hobbies. Free time can even be a combination of all of the above. Make sure to fill up free time to prevent cravings from consuming one’s world.
Do Not Skip Meetings
Yes, there are going to be times when people are out of town; however, there is going to be the urge to skip meetings on a regular basis. Remember that these are vital to someone’s recovery. This is a time to not only lean on others for support but also to support others as well. Realize how important it is to learn from the experiences of others. These meetings help someone stay motivated on the road to recovery. Make sure to go on a regular basis.
Have a Backup Plan in Place Before Going
There are going to be days when times are tough. Maybe the cravings are particularly strong. Perhaps someone feels like giving in. This is the time when a backup plan is important for keeping someone sober. Make sure to create one. This might look different depending on the situation. If there is a stressful situation, such as a social gathering, and the cravings and stress are starting to feel overwhelming, execute the backup plan. Make sure to discuss this plan with others in advance as well.
Build Healthy Relationships with Family and Friends
Finally, those who are looking to stay clean need to make sure they build healthy relationships. This means making new friends and investing in better social habits. If someone maintains the toxic relationships that enabled the addictive behavior in the first place, they are not going to be able to stay clean. Think about what these healthy relationships are going to look like with family members and friends. This will help someone stay on the road to recovery.
Rely on Warner Park Recovery
When someone is going through addiction recovery, it is important to remember that this is a journey and not a destination. These tips can help someone not just get clean but stay sober as well. Anyone who needs help with addiction treatment and recovery should reach out to Warner Park Recovery today. We invest in the latest treatment options and resources so that we can provide appropriate care to all of our patients. To learn more about how we can help you, please call us today. We would be honored to take care of you and your family.
