Rules Of Sobriety Success As A Recovering Alcoholic
It may be just a drink, but swirling around in that drink is one of the most addictive substances known by this country. In fact, it is estimated that one out of every twelve adults in the United States are struggling with some form of alcohol addiction. If you fall into this category of adults, getting sober can be one of the most difficult challenges that you ever face. Sobriety from alcohol is achievable, but getting there is only the beginning. You can only stay successful in your sobriety if you follow these three rules to success as a recovering alcoholic.
Get to know what makes you want to drink and work to avoid these triggers.
It may be certain people you hang out with, places you go, things you do, or even seasons of the year--every addict has specific triggers that make them want their drug of choice even more than usual, and alcohol is no different. Through recovery and rehabilitation from an alcohol addiction, you will learn what your triggers are and perhaps even get to understand why these triggers normally send you to reach for alcohol. To stay successful in sobriety beyond treatment, you have to carry this newly learned information with you into the real world.
Accept any type of follow-up care that is recommended by your therapist.
Getting sober because you are in a controlled environment like in a drug and alcohol treatment center is one thing, but staying sober once you are out of that controlled environment is a different scenario completely. This is why it is common for addiction treatment counselors to recommend some form of follow-up care for those in treatment. If your counselor tells you that you should go into a sober living house after rehab or go to meetings for several months into the future, heed their advice as a warning. You will be much more likely to stay sober for the long term if you take advantage of follow-up care and meetings.
Be open about your past struggles with alcoholism.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when you come out of recovery as an alcoholic is to try to keep your issues hidden from the rest of the world. Being open and vocal about your struggles with addiction will set you up for better outcomes socially. When people know that you have a problem with alcoholism, they will be much less likely to recommend heading to a bar or offer you a drink.
If you think you could use a mental health counselor, visit Lincoln Psychiatric Group.