It is a tough road to recovery when you are struggling with addiction issues. For many addicts, spending time in inpatient rehab is the only way they can change the behaviors that led to substance abuse. However, even though rehab will help you address the root cause of your addiction, it is not an option for everyone.
Here are some self-help tips that anyone recovering from substance abuse can use.
Create a Support Network
The first 90 days are critical for addicts. Whether you have spent time in rehab or not the first 90 days are likely to feel overwhelming. Your addiction issues will have been a huge part of your life, so changing negative behaviors is going to be extremely difficult in the early days. You will need a lot of support during this period, from friends, family, and therapists. The truth is, no matter how determined you are, you simply cannot undertake this journey alone.
Join a support group and attend daily meetings. Everyone at these meetings is going through the same journey as you, so you can support each other. This difficult period will not be easy, but it is your best chance of preventing a relapse.
Create a Safe Environment at Home
Your home needs to feel safe. Remove everything that could spark a relapse. If this is too difficult, ask a trusted friend or loved one to clear out the pills, drugs, or alcohol.
Cut off contact with anyone linked to your old habits. This includes friends who still follow the same lifestyle, as they will soon lead you astray, even if their intentions are good. Delete phone numbers and shut down social media pages – at least in the short-term.
Learn to Love Yourself
Addiction issues are often linked to low self-esteem. The only way to beat your demons is to learn to love yourself. Sure, you have done some bad things and you may be a disappointment to your family, but practice the art of forgiveness. You can make amends and be a better person. It will just take time.
Be Kind
Be kind to yourself. Every day, say something positive to your reflection in the mirror. Little by little, this will boost your self-esteem. The more confident you feel, the less likely you are to slip back into your old, self-destructive patterns of behavior.
A Lifestyle Overhaul
Try to eat healthy foods, exercise, and get enough sleep. Substance abuse plays havoc with our mental and physical health, so you need to get your immune system back on track.
Keep visiting your therapist. Talking therapy is useful, particularly during times of crisis. A trained therapist will help you work through events in your life that may have led to your addiction issues.
Don’t rush back to your old life just yet. You will need time to form coping mechanisms to deal with cravings. Rest, recuperate and stick to a small circle of trusted friends and family.
You are strong enough to do this. Take each day at a time. Each day you get through without relapsing is another step closer to your new life.
Leave a Reply