If you’re in early sobriety, congratulations!
You’ve taken the first step towards creating a better life for yourself. “You are going to know a new freedom and happiness,” the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous promises.
That is, as long as you hold onto this sobriety with everything you’ve got.
So, how do you do it?
At the most basic level, you just have to keep yourself from picking up a drink or a drug — no matter what.
For a lot of people, the best way to do that is to go to 12 Step meetings as much as possible.
Some old timers say, “just don’t drink or use between meetings.”
If you’re lucky enough to live in an area with a lot of recovery, you might even want to try more than one meeting a day.
Once you’re in the door, take advantage of the support and resources available at meetings for people in early recovery.
Identify yourself as a newcomer. Even if you feel embarrassed, just remember that everyone in the room has been in your shoes before.
Most people really want to help, and asking for it is the only way to get it.
Outside of meetings, be gentle with yourself and remember that this is a fragile time.
Get as much sleep and healthy food as possible. Stay hydrated. Keep yourself out of triggering situations and away from old drinking and using friends as much as possible.
When all else fails, take a nap! You may find that you’re easily tired as your body and mind heal.
Above all, just remember that relapse is not required, and recovery IS possible. Every day that you do the next indicated thing, you’re getting closer towards achieving it for yourself.
The staff at Clean Path Behavioral Health can support and guide you through early recovery. Contact us today to find out how.