5 Tips for Staying Sober

If you are recovering from substance abuse, you already know how hard it was to get here. Having a relapse is the last thing on your mind, but it’s more common than you think. 40% to 60% of addicts relapse during the first year of their recovery. 

The new “you” is raw, sensitive, and vulnerable. You are constantly worried about what people think. After all, your old destructive personality left a significant impact on you and your loved ones. Without mood-altering substances, life got real, and you are having a hard time coping with stress and emotions. Therefore, we have written this guide to staying sober so that you can maintain a healthy lifestyle free from mood and mind-altering substances for good. 

How to Stay Sober After Addiction Treatment

You are trying to let go of the past and look at the future. However, your chances of a successful recovery depend on honesty, willingness, and acceptance. Through the best Intensive Outpatient Program, South Florida residents affected by addiction can begin their journey towards healing. They can talk about their struggles, how they have overcome challenges, and share their feelings instead of going through it all alone. 

• Join a Support Group

The first step of changing your habits is accepting you have a problem. It’s okay to talk about your urges. Addiction is a disease, and recovery takes time. Even after spending several months at a rehabilitation center in South Florida, you might not feel confident enough to let go of your past. You need inspiration, and, therefore, joining a support group is your best chance of staying sober. 

A support group is a fellowship of men and women who share your experience. Listening to their stories will motivate you to stay sober. If you hide your feelings and distance yourself from society, your chances of relapse increase by 40%. 

• Live in the Present 

The best practice for staying sober is to live life one day at a time. But when you are struggling, 24 hours seem like forever. This happens when you are fighting your demons alone. It would be best to let go of your past to focus on the present and prepare for the future. Staying sober isn’t easy, but planning for a better future is. Ask for guidance, take deep breaths, and recall your reasons for staying sober. This exercise will give you the strength you need to counter the negative thoughts in your mind. 

• Acknowledge Your Weak Points

You just went through a radical change. Everything seems different since you are sober. However, if you indulge yourself in the same stressful activities as before, your chances of relapse will increase. Revamp your schedule, friends circle, and sleep cycle. 

In your first few years, you need to stay away from places that break your spirit. Try to keep a safe distance from drugs and alcohol. Become aware of your triggers and try to control them. Focus on yourself and forget about the world. Soon, you will develop a strong personality that will fight toxic people and negative thoughts. 

• Control Your Urges 

During the first few years post-recovery, you will encounter urges. These temptations will try to lure you into the world you stepped out of. While most urges last for 15 to 30 minutes, some can be overwhelming. You might try substitutes like chewing gum or meditation, but they won’t keep you sober for long. 

Remember, staying sober is a constant battle between you and your urges. So, the best way to stay sober is to keep yourself busy. Find a job that consumes your entire day, leaving you tired and sleepy. 

• Follow Your Passion 

If you had a passion before you submitted to substance abuse, it’s time to pursue it. When you occupy yourself with a routine that keeps you happy, your brain releases a chemical called endorphin. This chemical strengthens your resolve and keeps you motivated to stay sober. Follow your passion and forget about your past because you have been gifted with a new life. 

Ending Note 

Staying sober is more challenging than quitting your addiction. Most addicts relapse within the first year of their recovery because they forget why they chose sobriety. Keeping yourself away from your danger zones and staying stress-free is key to sobriety. 

If you know someone struggling with substance abuse, recommend them a good rehabilitation center in Florida. The Sands Treatment Center is an excellent rehabilitation facility with expertise and knowledge in the treatment of professionals. They offer both outpatient and in-patient treatment plans. You can schedule a call by dialing (844) 200-2509. Visit the Sands Treatment Center website for more details.