Addiction is complex and wreaks havoc on a person’s mental, physical, and spiritual health. Addiction changes the way the brain works and makes the brain dependent on drugs or alcohol to function. People often abuse drugs and alcohol to cope with post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety.
Keeping a journal in addiction recovery is therapeutic and is often used to keep track of emotions and feelings, how a person copes without using drugs or alcohol, and success in sobriety. Writing empowers a person to stay sober by recording each day the person is sober.
Health benefits of journaling
The physical act of writing is calming. It soothes the soul and is a healthy activity that lowers anxiety and stress while promoting critical thinking. Journaling helps a person look deeper into his or her feelings with a clear, sober mind. Journaling also gives a person time to reflect on experiences and provides insight into deep-rooted thoughts.
Journaling reduces risk of relapse
When a person keeps a journal, his or her mind is occupied with their success in sobriety. It reduces the risk of turning to drugs or alcohol to cope with stressful situations. Journaling allows an individual to reflect on previous challenges and see what caused thoughts of relapse, how the person was feeling at the time, and what he or she did to avoid it.
Journaling increases motivation
Instead of turning to substances to cope, writing improves mental health and relieves anxiety and stress. Writing also promotes sober living success and helps counselors and clients identify emotional concerns.
Journaling promotes mindfulness and spiritual well-being
Writing is an emotional outlet that people use in treatment and throughout recovery. During drug and alcohol use, the brain was affected and the substances took control of the body’s functions. The substance-controlled brain leads to the inability to remember important events, dates, and family gatherings. Writing boosts communication and improves memory. Mindfulness can be cultivated through writing, which improves planning and cognitive function.
Journaling helps a person transition into a new, sober lifestyle and improves mental and physical health. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, get help today. Do not let the stigma of addiction stop you from asking for help. Take the opportunity to restored health and a rejuvenated spirit.
Cypress Lake Recovery 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
