Strengthening Your Body and Mind After Recovery

Successfully completing an addiction treatment program is a tremendous achievement in and of itself. However, it is just the first step. Recovery is a lifelong process, and it is vital that you keep your body and mind healthy and strong going forward. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your clean and sober living.

1. Remember your triggers. For some, your triggers may come from conflict with family members or friends; for others, it could be external influences, such as work or financial problems. Whatever they may be, you must have an alternate method of coping ready to take the place of the drugs or alcohol in order to avoid relapse.

2. Find time to exhale, both physically and emotionally. Entering back into the “real world” after finishing a treatment program can lure you into reestablishing old bad habits, or associating with individuals who don’t have your best interests in mind. Take a few minutes out of the beginning and end of each day to take a deep breath and find your center. A guided meditation CD may be useful.

3. Go easy on yourself. Nobody’s perfect. Don’t let a misstep send you into a downward spiral. Reach out for assistance when you need it, but try not to beat yourself up on top of it. The additional anxiety and negative thinking will do you no favors.