In America, an alarming 15 million people suffer from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) every year. Sadly, this results in an annual loss of life in the tens of thousands. While some succumb to the physical effects of alcohol on the body, many others lose their lives in accidents avoidable if sober.
However, rehabilitation from alcoholism is possible. But, there are some things you should be conscious of if you, or a loved one, are starting on the path to sobriety. Continue reading to learn more about alcohol addiction recovery.
Alcohol Addiction Recovery Is a Lifelong Process
Many who are now sober still refer to themselves as “recovering addicts.” This is true even if their last drink was decades ago because they understand that they’re in recovery for life.
The reason is that there is no cure for alcohol abuse or addiction. Instead, rehab centers like this one, Hope Rising Recovery, will teach you the necessary tools to cope with life and avoid alcohol, and you will implement these tools for the rest of your life.
Expect to Make Lifestyle Changes
If you or someone you love is considering addiction help, you should be aware that becoming sober entails shedding most, if not all, aspects of your former life. This is because everything that makes up your lifestyle, from your friends to where you hang out, can contribute to a potential relapse.
So, during your alcohol addiction recovery, you’ll have to carefully consider how each part has played a role in your addiction and whether or not it should be discontinued. For this reason, it’s essential that you learn, and learn to avoid, your relapse triggers.
However, these are complex decisions, and there isn’t always an easy solution. You can’t simply excise the alcoholism from your life like a tumor. For this reason, it’s essential to seek the help of a therapist for the strongest recovery.
Forgive Yourself If a Relapse Happens
After you seek alcohol abuse treatment for your drinking problem, you should know that a relapse may happen. If one does happen, it’s critical to talk to someone who can help you right away.
Often, people call a designated person further along in their recovery. But there are also anonymous hotlines with trained professionals who can provide support 24/7. To find one, try searching for “alcohol help hotline.”
Recovering addicts and their loved ones should also remember that a relapse does not preclude that individual from ever enjoying a sober life again. So, while recovering from the relapse, it’s recommended that you take the time to forgive yourself. This is because ruminating on a perceived setback can lead to a slide back into addiction.
Practice Gratitude
During your alcohol addiction recovery, life won’t always be easy. During those times, you might get overwhelmed and lose sight of all the positive changes you’ve made thus far. This is when it’s time to pull out a secret weapon: practicing gratitude.
To implement this joy-inducing habit, simply think about something you’re grateful for at the start or end of every day. For a more formal practice, write it down in a journal. When you do, you’ll be grounded in the present and reminded that there is always something to be thankful about.
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