The road to recovery is a long one. Getting sober is just one of the most significant first steps you’ll make on your road to recovery. However, remaining in recovery and continuing your journey to healing physically, mentally, and emotionally is just as important as the initial detox. This article outlines some of the most important steps in continuing to heal during your post-addiction lifestyle.
Keep going to therapy.
This might not apply to all addicts, as some have gotten clean without the help of a rehabilitation or detox center. Whether you kicked your addiction on your own or in a rehab environment, it’s important to seek therapy to deal with all the mental and emotional triggers that are more than likely to pop up on more than one occasion.
People who haven’t seen a therapist before aren’t always sure of what to expect, but preparing for your first therapy session can make a world of difference. You can do this by ensuring that your therapist is skilled in the background you’re seeking therapy for, as well as preparing yourself mentally for the topics that are most likely to be discussed. Some people seeking therapy might consider sharpening their communication skills, so the session can go more smoothly and be as effective as possible. Don’t be discouraged if your first therapy session seems disappointing. You might not be compatible with the therapist, but it’s also possible that it will take a few sessions to feel a real difference. Above all, listen to your gut, and have the healthiest version of yourself in mind.
Find a passion, and pursue it.
One of the best ways to continue healing during your post-addiction lifestyle is to keep your body and mind active. Whether you prefer doing this by going to the gym regularly or adopting a new hobby, it should be something that you’re truly passionate about. Some people in recovery enjoy helping others and find it’s a great way to continue healing emotionally.
Exercise has been known as one of the best natural stress relievers there is. This is why you’ll often see people in recovery taking more frequent trips to the gym or taking up running or jogging. Several organizations across the country, such as Back on My Feet, are dedicated to showing people that if you first restore confidence, strength, and self-esteem, individuals are better equipped to tackle the road ahead. This particular organization focuses on running and community involvement to continue the healing process.
Reward yourself for your progress.
Too often, people make the mistake of not looking in the rearview mirror and rewarding themselves for the steps they’ve taken to recovery. When we do look back, we tend to focus on all the things we have done wrong and choose to self loathe rather than give ourselves a pat on the back. Besides creating a toxic self-image of yourself, looking back on your past and focusing on mistakes will only increase your likelihood of relapse. As you navigate your post-addiction lifestyle, it’s important to take it day by day and reward yourself regularly for the positive and healthy strides you’ve made.
One of the trending phrases today is “self-care.” Self care can mean so many different things to different people, but the root of it lies in preserving one’s own health, whether it’s physical, mental, or emotional. Some people practice self-care by simply getting enough sleep at night or taking time to exercise each day. Other people will practice self-care by going shopping and browsing womens jackets to treat themselves to new apparel. There are many different ways to practice self-care, but the most important part is putting emphasis on taking care and preserving the best version of yourself for today and the future.
Above all, remember that the process of healing post-addiction is bound to ebb and flow. Some days, you’ll feel great, and other days you might need to make an extra call to your therapist to get your mind back on track. Be gentle with yourself, gracious with your past, and mindful of your future.
