Drugs and alcohol change the brain chemically and physiologically when you have a substance use disorder. The pain becomes physically dependent on the drugs or alcohol and you can experience painful withdrawals when quitting them without the assistance of a medically supervised detox.
Lifestyle changes must be made for a fulfilling and successful recovery. The brain needs time to learn how to function without drugs or alcohol. Everyone and everything associated with the drug or alcohol-using behavior must change.
Staying sober can be very challenging. Friends who used drugs or consumed alcohol with you before treatment might unintentionally influence or trigger a relapse. Treatment teaches clients how to respond to difficult situations and avoid them. There are opportunities to develop new sober friendships by going to group meetings. If the urge to use drugs or alcohol is intense, you can call on a sober friend who can talk you through your feelings.
Addiction makes an impact on mental and physical health. In recovery, there will be more time to focus on healthy activities. According to Buddy T., founding member of the Online Al-Anon Outreach Committee, “Exercise and recreational activities can reduce stress, which can be a major trigger for relapse. Exercise can also reduce boredom, another relapse trigger. Mainly, becoming physically active can restore a sense of balance in your life and therefore benefit you emotionally.”
When you are active, you will have less time to think about using drugs or alcohol. Staying active lessens the risk of relapse and promotes mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Another way to cope with lifestyle changes is to keep a journal. Doing this allows you to reflect on your progress and success, and see how you managed emotions and challenges in early recovery. Developing new routines will replace old habits and helps avoid triggers. New, sober, sustainable friendships will make it easier to enjoy healthy interests and activities while living substance free.
If you or a loved one suffers from addiction, get help today. Addiction is not your fault and you are not alone. Get help now and enjoy an exciting, boredom-free, new sober lifestyle.
Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in addiction treatment and is located in a serene, remote, lush-green, oxygen enriched environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy and offers yoga and meditation 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