Be upfront with your loved ones. They may be having a hard time adjusting to your sobriety. They may feel left out of the picture because you are always going off to meetings. Let them know your goals, and plans to achieve them. Tell them you need to focus mostly on your recovery for just a while longer. Explain that this is necessary for you to get well. If your spouse and you are having a tough time, sit down and talk about the possibility of going to couples therapy because your relationship with them is vital. Let them know you love them and want to start working on rebuilding your relationship.
Find a sponsor, and a therapist. If you are involved in a 12-step program, having a sponsor needs to be a high priority. Your sponsor with will help you find your way through the program. They will also be the first person you call if or when you are confronted by a crisis. This person needs to be someone you trust. In addition to finding a sponsor, seeing a therapist is critical for exploring the deeply hidden, fearful and even angry parts and yourself—the parts that could have lead you to addiction. Healing begins with self awareness and change.
It’s considered wise to avoid any major life changes during your first 90 days and possibly up to a year of sobriety, because your psyche is vulnerable and raw. This means not having a new romantic relationship, getting a divorce or a new job, moving to a new town or a new residence. One major goal needs to be to keep your life simple. You’ve undoubtedly been through a lot just getting sober. Give yourself some well-earned time. Uprooting, whatever the arena, can add tremendous stress and strain on your sober life and your relationships.
Keep it simple means to try and limit social engagements. The first 90 days of sobriety need your full attention. You’ll have plenty of time later to embrace your friends, get out and enjoy activities together like going to the movies, taking in a ball game, hiking and outdoor activities and having a meal together. These activities, of course are part of a well-round recovery and you’ll be in a better place to enjoy them after first submerging yourself in recovery.
Work with your therapist to learn what may trigger you to have an urge for a drink or drug. Practice coping skills. Avoid your old haunts and friends who continue to avoid confronting their addiction. They may have once been your mainstay, but they are not going to be able to help you cope with things that come up in everyday sober living. Lastly celebrate each day you remain sober. It’s something for which you can be really proud.
Cypress Lake Recovery offers treatment for addiction in a peaceful, remote, oxygen-rich environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204
