Coming out of a denial, accepting one’s addiction and getting sober demand a great deal of courage and strong will power. Once an individual is sober, maintaining that phase for life can be a difficult task. The initial recovery period is an extremely vulnerable phase of one’s life because one has to start all over again, almost in all the areas of life. This might lead to acute anxiety and increase one’s chance to suffer from a relapse. Therefore, while treading the recovery path, it is imperative to keep few things in mind to ensure that one doesn’t go off track.

Here are some important reminders that can help an individual stay sane and sober, for good:

Addiction is a brain disease and recovery is a life-long commitment

Unfortunately, addiction is associated with stigma and discrimination because of which it is considered as a moral failing, however, this is a myth. Addiction does not depend on one’s culture, social and financial standing. One must always remember that addiction is a mental disorder that demands therapy. In addition, one cannot afford to get complacent after attaining sobriety. One has to commit to a lifestyle that would facilitate sobriety.

Intentions do not suffice

When one is in recovery, having positive intentions and repeating positive affirmations is not sufficient until these are translated into actions. It is important to set achievable short-term goals, develop a strategy and then execute them with full gusto. One should, however, start small, like starting with some workout for 15 minutes a day, volunteering for a couple of hours a week, meditating for 10 minutes a day, and so on. One should take one day at a time and work towards personal growth on a daily basis.

Sobriety brings self-actualization

When one is completely sober, free from the effects of alcohol or any intoxicating drug, one can think clearly. Often, people in early recovery get to understand their inner self and it is then that they can guage the extent of the damage inflicted on their relationships, career, social life, health and finances. It is absolutely normal to feel remorseful. It is important to acknowledge these feelings and not shove them under the rug. It would be sensible to make peace with self and move on.

Connecting and reaching out is helpful

No matter how long one has been sober, it is important to stay grounded, develop relationships and a strong support group. One must socialize with people who facilitate sobriety and stay away from those who enable addiction. One should get associated with sober groups and regularly attend their programs and meetings. In addition, one should try to volunteer and extend support to addiction healing programs. Reaching out to people who need support will remind one of his or her struggles and will strengthen the resolve to stay sober and mindful.

Relapse does not equate to failure

It is extremely important to understand that relapse is a part of addiction recovery process and to err is human. Relapse is not an end to recovery, rather, it is a signal, indicating a re-evaluation of the strategies. Sulking in isolation and dwelling on a mistake, again and again, can get self-deprecating.

Recovery is worth it

Recovery is tantamount to getting a new lease of life. It is liberating and empowering. It provides new insights and can provide a fresh outlook toward life. Recovery is a journey which is full of discovery, slip-ups, learnings and amendments. At any point during the recovery, if one gets into a relapse, it is important to get the required support.

For those seeking a recovery from addiction, detoxification is the preliminary step that prepares the body for subsequent treatments. If you or a loved one is hooked to a substance and is looking for appropriate management, the Florida Detox Helpline can help you get in touch with one of the best detox facilities in Florida in your vicinity. You can call at our 24/7 helpline number 855-920-9869 or chat online with our associates to get additional information.

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Cognitive behavioral therapy and recovery

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