Remaining Sober After Treatment
What is addiction?
Many people view addiction as the inability to stop taking drugs or drinking alcohol. They view the extreme as addiction, such as a homeless person who has lost everything due to their habit. However there are many addicts who are able to stop for short periods of time before they then drink or take drugs again. This often prevents them from admitting that they have a problem. They compare themselves to an extreme version of their own sickness. Many alcoholics are able to go through a period of time without drinking. Although, during their time being sober they may obsess over their next opportunity to drink.
Abstinence is key
Even after treatment, this obsession with their addiction can continue. Thus in order to stay sober there must be a constant focus upon their programme. This is the only tool an addict has in order to remain sober. Many people try reiki healing, hypnotherapy, herbal remedies, and acupuncture. Many have found all of this is very little use. Every addict will be aware of the physical and mental deterioration associated with drug addiction. In order to prevent this there must be total abstinence, as an addict is unable to consume in small quantities.
The twelve step programme
The twelve step programme is the most effective way of staying sober. It helps addicts to tackle the deep rooted problems which cause them to be addicts. It gives one something to dedicate their lives to and allows them to see value in a sober life. Twelve step programmes as followed by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are also helpful to addicts. They are run by other addicts with a long time of sobriety under their belt. They have their own experience of sobriety to draw from. This gives them the experience needed to advise and guide newer members on their course for abstinence.
The addict will realise that their addiction will never leave them. It is a sickness which will affect them every day, and something to be constantly vigilant of. Thus their programme will allow them to be able to deal with certain situations which arise. This is especially the case where the addict may feel in danger of relapse.
Keeping busy and exercising
After treatment it is important for the recovering addict to stay busy. One of the main causes for relapse can often be depression and boredom. If one is idle they may find themselves being tormented over the trials and tribulations of sobriety. Exercise is also a healthy way of taking ones mind off of their addiction. Many feel that runs or light cardiovascular training help take their mind off of their stresses. Also, exercise releases natural endorphins which make one feel happy, and helps one to continue on with efforts for abstinence. Finally it is important to try to meet new people and make new friends. This is because after rehab it can often be easy to slip back into the same routine that the addict was in before treatment. Therefore it is important to disassociate oneself from the friends who were using as an addict simply cannot endure the temptation.
If you have an alcohol or drug related problem, please call 01462 851 414 for free and confidential advice and help.
