10 Tips for Overcoming Substance Abuse

Getting clean from an addiction to a substance is a lifelong process, and with the support and resources that are available, it can be easier than ever to start. If you are planning on stopping using drugs or alcohol, then these 10 tips will help you get started.

1. Build Connections With Others

One of the best ways to get clean is by entering an inpatient treatment facility. This type of facility can provide you with 24-hour supervision and support, especially if you need to detox. While there, you can build connections with others who are having the same types of struggles that you are. This often helps people feel more motivated to get clean.

A facility is also a great place to get medication-assisted treatment to help with cravings and withdrawals. It combines behavioral counseling, medication, and therapy to help you fight your battles.

2. Find Something to Fill Your Free Time

Getting clean can be challenging, especially for people who used to spend a lot of time misusing substances. However, the freedom to choose a new hobby or return to an old favorite can be an opportunity to start over. There are many different ways to get creative, such as by exercising or creating new art.

3. Start Volunteering

While you are getting clean, you should give back to the community. In addition to helping others, volunteering can also help people stay clean. According to studies, volunteering can help people alter the way they think about their substance use and reduce their likelihood of abusing it.

4. Practice Mindfulness

If you have already started to seek help for your addiction, then cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may be a good option. This type of therapy focuses on developing strategies that will help you break unhealthy patterns.

Begin practicing mindfulness, which can help you feel content when you just breathe. This will allow you to avoid external factors that can affect your well-being, such as your addiction.

5. Keep a Journal

Another important step that you can take to keep track of how far you have come in your sobriety is to record your thoughts and feelings. This will allow you to reflect on all the changes that have happened in your life. Having a journal can also help you celebrate your achievements and keep track of all the hard work that you have been putting in.

6. Eat Healthy Meals

Healthy food options can help you maintain a healthy and balanced body. They can help boost the levels of serotonin, which is a feel-good hormone that can help you relax and feel better.

Adding protein and vegetables to a meal can help you avoid craving substances. If you are struggling with vitamin deficiencies, eating healthy and nutritious food options can help you recover from the effects of addiction. Some of the best food options that can help you recover from your addiction are citrus fruits, eggs, and poultry.

7. Keep Yourself Accountable

Reaching out to family and friends can help when you are struggling with addiction, but it’s also important to consider enlisting the help of an accountability partner. This person can be a part of your support system, and they can help you maintain a consistent level of sobriety.

8. Choose Your Company Wisely

A critical factor that can affect your behavior when it comes to recovering from an addiction is the people you spend time with. If you have a group of friends who have used illicit substances, you must distance yourself from them as soon as possible. This will allow you to avoid being exposed to people who have used drugs or alcohol. During recovery, it’s also important to find new friends. You can start by joining a new sport or group activity.

9. Read

One of the most effective ways to get clean and sober is by reading books that are about getting sober. These can help you manage the negative effects of addiction, as well as help you put a stop to your use. However, even reading novels can help you get clean. This is because it can help you forget about your addiction and focus on a fantasy world.

10. Attend a Treatment Facility

Although these tips are all helpful, it’s important to consider reaching out to other people who are struggling with addiction. This can help you put a stop to your use and reach a better recovery.

Final Thoughts

Getting clean from substance abuse is a difficult journey. If you want to get sober and stay that way, it is important to get the professional help you need.