Sober but Lost? Tips for Finding Yourself in Addiction Recovery
Before deciding to enter our inpatient rehab in Florida, many of the people who come to us are lost and no longer have a sense of purpose in the world.
Amidst addiction, it is normal to lose sight of who you are. Unfortunately, these feelings don’t magically disappear overnight. Even though you may be sober, self-discovery in addiction recovery is a long process and a journey that often extends beyond your time in rehab.
How to Find Yourself in Recovery
Whether you have been sober for a few weeks or a year, you might still be trying to find your way back. Although it may be challenging and overwhelming at times, finding yourself in addiction recovery and establishing an identity that is separate from your substance abuse is an important part of the recovery process. Not only can it keep you focused on moving forward but also it may help you avoid relapse. Because this journey of self-discovery can be difficult, our behavioral healthcare center in Lake Worth is sharing a few tips on how to find yourself in sobriety to keep working toward a happier life.
Do Something You Enjoy
It’s common to abandon your favorite hobbies and pastimes while using. You forget how much you enjoyed watching movies with friends, reading a good book, or even spending time with family. If you had hobbies you enjoyed like painting, reading, fixing cars, or even assembling train sets, try to get back into them. Revisiting old favorites can be a great way to renew your sense of purpose.
If you don’t have any old hobbies or want to avoid old hobbies that could trigger addiction cravings, find new ones. Go to a painting class, try knitting, learn a new language, or join a recreational sports team. The possibilities are endless, but the important thing is to find positive sources of joy that can give your life new meaning.
Join a Support Group
If you are feeling lost in addiction recovery, you are not alone. It’s easy to become discouraged or lose hope. While some people can undergo their journey of self-discovery in recovery on their own, you might benefit from the support of others. Support groups and recovery meetings can be beneficial and allow you to connect with others in recovery to help you feel less alone. You may also be able to learn from these people about how they were able to find themselves in recovery from addiction.
Be Patient with Yourself
It’s normal to feel discouraged during this process. Not only are you adjusting to a new lifestyle, but also, you’re trying to rebuild pieces of yourself that you might have misplaced because of your addiction. Asking too much of yourself in recovery can be dangerous and could potentially even lead to a relapse. Rome was not built in a day. Addiction recovery takes time and finding yourself in addiction recovery is a long journey. Be patient with yourself and remember that nothing worth doing is easy. Don’t rush the process; take this time to learn about what’s best for you. You’ve already taken the first step of choosing to recover, take this time to enjoy your successes.
At Behavioral Health of the Palm Beaches, also known as the Center for Alcohol & Drug Studies, we understand that finding yourself in recovery can be a challenge, but it’s a great opportunity to learn how to love yourself in the most positive ways. If you get discouraged and do relapse, our partial hospitalization program can help you get back on track.
Whether you recently relapsed or have yet to start the road to recovery, you do not need to do it alone. Reach out to us now at 561-220-3981 to learn more.
