A large body of research exists examining—and proving—the efficacy of AA for sobriety. A 2011 study by Krentzman, Robinson, et al. sought to answer the question of why some people chose to continue going to meetings even after they achieved short-term sobriety. Enjoy the opportunity to learn about desire by not fulfilling it. Be more realistic about the actual rewards of indulging desires; enjoy waking up from the spells cast – “Drink this! Smoke that! Eat these!” – by addictive hungers. Enjoy how sobriety supports your practices in the upper reaches of human potential, including in spiritual life.
Can Enjoy a Healthy Lifestyle
- Just keep in mind that your improvements won’t happen overnight.
- These relationships provide support, understanding, and companionship without the temptation of substance use.
- Get the support you need, when you need it, on your terms.
- This article presents 8 proven methods to help you stay sober in 2024 and beyond.
- When it’s time to unwind, it feels like something’s missing.
- Enjoying sober activities can offer a range of benefits, including improved physical health, heightened mental clarity, and more meaningful social interactions.
Consider attending a sound bath to relax and balance your energy. The sounds of gongs, chimes, percussion instruments, tuning forks and chimes can help you feel more calm and at ease. Whether you want to browse through charming shops, update your wardrobe, find supplies for a new hobby or give your home a new look, shopping is one of the easiest things to do sober.
Tips for Staying Sober During the Holidays
- Without the effects of alcohol, you might find you have more energy, clearer thoughts, and increased focus, all of which can contribute to more creative pursuits and efficient work.
- You can learn to cook, paint, make pottery, decorate cakes, complete woodworking projects, play an instrument, speak another language or dance.
- People may want to feel numb so they can overlook the bad things in their life.
- Such symptoms are often related to mood and may include irritability, anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and fatigue.
- However, the idea behind the Addicted-Self Model is that alcoholism, like many other diseases, is a physical ailment—one that there is no cure for, only treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms.
If you recently had surgery or an injury, your doctor will be careful with the pain medication they give you, because some of those drugs can make you more likely to relapse. Ask your doctor about nonmedical ways to manage your pain, like massage or acupuncture. People in recovery from a substance use disorder frequently have problems meeting work-related responsibilities, maintaining employment, and managing money. If you were active in your addiction for a period of time, you may have developed financial problems. A structured routine will help you achieve other goals in your life, whether they are short-term (like being on time for work) or long-term (like going back to school and changing careers).
Experience a Museum
And keep your schedule loose enough that you have time for group meetings and other things that can help you through rough stretches. You may want to start an exercise routine — exercise releases brain chemicals called endorphins, which can make you feel good. Or you might rather spend time volunteering for a good cause, like an animal shelter or children’s hospital. Whatever it is, new activities can lead to new friends with interests like yours. Lean on close friends and family for support, even if your relationships aren’t what they used to be. Think about going to counseling or family therapy to help with that and to deal with other personal issues.
How to practice and achieve emotional sobriety
You can try different meetings for the different groups to find one that’s right for you. Recovery allows you to get to know the real you and learn to love that person. Check out the Sober Powered Podcast to learn more about how alcohol affects the brain. Regular check-ups allow for dosage adjustments, monitoring of side effects, and assessment of overall treatment efficacy. Consider reaching out to a vocational rehabilitation counselor or career coach to help you update your resume, practice job interview skills, and locate jobs that match your skills and experience.
Going out on a week-night and still being awesome at work the next day.
💙 Indulge in self-kindness with (Self) Love Bombing, a mindfulness practice on the power of being kind to yourself and boosting confidence as you navigate sobriety. It’s important to reasons to stay sober feel comfortable and secure in your choice not to drink. You don’t need to explain your reasons unless you want to. Getting support doesn’t have to mean going to rehab, although that is an option. Support can also look like joining in-person and online support groups. One 2020 study found potential benefits of combining in-person and online support methods.