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The First Steps to Getting Sober
Getting sober is hard. It’s not a decision you can just make and then wake up one day thinking “I’m done with this”. Emotionally, spiritually or physically — you’ve got to work on your sobriety every single day for it to be truly yours. A lot of people think they’re ready but really have no idea what real recovery looks like. You can’t quit an addiction for good unless you’re ready to get real about the extent and seriousness of your condition. The truth is, most people need more than just a strong will; they need to take the first step to get sober.
Setting goals for sobriety is the very first step on your road to recovery. It can be hard, but if you decide to take this journey and really want it bad enough…then everything will work out perfectly! Write down your goal statements so that they are tangible reminders of how much progress has been made every day after reaching new successes with clean days.
When you set realistic goals, you can take the following first steps to getting sober.
Enroll Yourself In An Intensive Outpatient Program
Intensive Outpatient Programs at our facilities are a great way to get sober quickly and stay that way. This type of program provides you with various resources, which will help from day one — without sacrificing any other obligations in life.
Stay Away from Risky Situations
The person who wants to get sober should avoid interacting with the people they used to use drugs with. Also, you should avoid going near places where memories of those associations exist, like an old hangout or friend’s house.
Find Activities You Love
New activities can lead you to find like-minded people with whom you share your interests. Whether it is starting an exercise routine or volunteering at the animal shelter, there are many ways that can lead you to new experiences and relationships that can motivate your recovery process.
Find Ways to Relax
Tensed situations can urge you to do drugs or drink alcohol. If the situation around you is relaxed, you are more open to trying new, healthy things. Consider the following activities to keep your mind and body relaxed:
- A bath
- Meditation
- Reading
- Breathing exercises
- Music
- Yoga
- A massage
- A walk with your loved one
Build Your Own Support Network
When things get tough, lean on your close friends and family. They’ll be there for you no matter what life throws at them — even if their love isn’t as strong as it used to be. If that doesn’t work out either, then think about going for family therapy or counseling.
Having sober friends to invite as your plus-one to social events like parties or weddings is a great idea. Also, stay in touch with your physician or sponsor so that you can call them whenever you feel uncomfortable or stressed.
Don’t Let Urges Win
This is one of the most vital first steps to getting sober. Even though most cravings last for a short period, it can be difficult to fight them off. You can try substitute activities such as drinking a mocktail or chewing a piece of gum.
When the negative thoughts are getting worse, try distracting yourself with activities that make your heart sing. You could do something creative like write in a journal or play music. Keeping yourself busy with healthy and happy activities can really be a game-changer in your recovery process.
Manage Your Stress & Avoid Triggers
It’s not uncommon for people who are recovering from addiction to feel stressed out, and it can happen at any time. If you’re having difficulty handling your daily responsibilities because of major or minor stresses in life — find someone that will care about what’s happening with you.
Keeping your body healthy is a key to keeping the mind positive and relaxed during recovery. So make time for exercise, eat a balanced diet (with plenty of fruits & vegetables), and get enough sleep.
Sign Up for a Peer Support Group
The best way to build a support network is by joining organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics anonymous. You can try different meetings until you find one that works for your needs.
Get Help Today
The commitment to sobriety should not be taken lightly. When you maintain connections with resources, they can help sustain your recovery and refresh the skills necessary for a lifetime of sobriety.
These first steps to getting sober are possible with the right mindset and commitment. With these two things, one can achieve the goal of becoming substance-free for life!
Author: Joe Gilmore
