Quitting drinking can feel simple at first but it is a lifelong journey, not just a one stop deal. After spending years of one’s life thinking of drinking, going out drinking and being involved in scenes where alcohol was present it will take many more years to finally be free of the mindset and experience recovery. The key is not to give up until really giving sobriety a chance to stick.
The Journey
Every person goes through a very individual journey with addiction. It is crucial to stop fighting the idea of recovery and just accept that is how things are right now and for the future. It is not possible to drink safely or without harming other people so it is not up for debate. Sometimes that is a hard truth to accept, particularly in early recovery. The idea of never drinking again can feel ominous but it is important to not give into stinkin thinkin and focus on what truly matters.
Find Support
A person who wants to give up needs to find support right away. Oftentimes, isolation can bring on feelings of wanting to use a substance again and return to toxic habits. Living sober is more difficult alone. Be willing to fight with all the power and intention that is available and be ready to accept reality to move towards a solution. Seek support from help groups, therapists and loved ones who can help dive into the reasons why things are happening and support a better path.
Go to Groups
One of the first things to go when a person is struggling in recovery is attendance at groups. It is important to seek support during early sobriety and the days ahead. Getting into groups, meeting others who experience the same thing and offer validation for the journey can be very helpful for not giving up on sobriety. To get sober means to wrestle and struggle with difficult situations and emotions, it is easier to handle those things in community with others who feel the same.
Self-Care
Sobriety is challenging enough but living with the feeling of not being good enough or feeling like one’s best self can really derail an otherwise positive recovery experience. Start slowly, one day at a time. There is no need to change one’s entire life all at the same time. Good self-care practices include getting enough rest, exercise, eating healthy foods, spending time with sober friends, finding hobbies, meditating, doing yoga or any other types of activities which bring healing and joy to one’s life. Find those spaces which bring hope and good cheer while seeking opportunities to give back. This will help keep recovery on track for the long haul.
Don’t give up before miracles happen. It is crucial to stay on track, find others to help and do not give up on sobriety before really giving it a chance to be the amazing experience it can be.
Your journey is just beginning in recovery. Every day is a new day so make this one a good one. If you’re struggling, call The Villa. Let us help support you through the challenges and get you back on track.