Only 10% of Americans will seek treatment for alcohol or substance abuse, and even fewer will remain sober after treatment. Now more than ever, it’s crucial that if you’re in recovery, you do what’s necessary to maintain your sobriety during a time when the likelihood of relapsing is at an all time high. Staying healthy is a daily uphill battle, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible
Even while you’re home, sobriety can be maintained. There are ways to continue your sobriety journey even during this pandemic, when the number of overdose deaths are drastically on the rise.
You may be overwhelmed with the number of people that are relapsing during this time, but we’re here to provide you the help that you’re looking for.
We understand you’re committed to your treatment program and want to support you by giving you some must-know tips to remain sober.
1. Join Virtual Treatment Meetings
Due to physical distancing rules in place, making it to your regular meetings may be impossible.
One option you have when it comes to continuing your treatment plan is to take part in virtual meetings. Various treatment centers are using conferencing platforms, like Zoom. This allows those who need it the opportunity to maintain their treatment program and schedule.
2. Continue Taking Medications
If you’ve been prescribed one of the medications that can help you curb your opioid cravings, then the best thing that you can do is keep taking your medication.
You may also find that you have underlying issues that also require medications to help keep symptoms under control, including medication for depression and anxiety. If you’ve run out of medication, there’s no need to worry because there are a variety of online places where you can place an order for the medication that you need.
3. Keep Yourself Busy
One of the best things that you can do when trying to stay sober is to keep yourself busy with various tasks and hobbies that you find interesting. You’ll want to stay busy because boredom may trigger relapse.
Especially during a time when we’re all stuck inside, and it can be easy to become bored. Fortunately, this pandemic has given many the extra time to begin new hobbies. You could plant a garden or complete the remodel that you’ve wanted to begin for quite some time.
Anything that will keep you busy and interested is worth a shot.
4. Talk to Someone
When you begin to feel overwhelmed by the present state of the world, then the best thing that you could do is reach out to someone that you trust for help, whether that means calling a sponsor, or contacting someone else that can offer you support while you’re in recovery.
It helps to speak to someone that understands what you’re going through. They can offer your advice and tips about how to use your time and redirect your thoughts effectively.
5. Define Boundaries
Being stuck inside with your family members or friends, you’ll want to set boundaries. Many families that have had to deal with someone that’s suffered from addiction also have issues. The family relationships may have become codependent.
When relationships are based on codependency, its challenging for someone to continue focusing on their sobriety.
Setting boundaries will help you stay calm, especially during this stressful time.
6. One Day at a Time
One useful tip is to just take things one day at a time. Thinking too far ahead can make you overwhelmed or stressed, which increases the chances of relapse. Take a deep breath, and just take it day-by-day.
7. Catch Up On What You Missed
During your addiction, you’ll find that you miss making memories with your close friends and family. Ironically, we have more time than ever to catch up with those close to us.
Of course, it may need to be over the phone or video call, but talking with loved ones is a great way to stay grounded and feel connected to those important with us.
It may also give you time to make amends and have important discussions.
Staying Healthy During the Pandemic
Staying healthy during this pandemic can be challenging, but the options above might help you stay sober and healthy. Keeping busy and spending time with close family and friends will help to occupy your time.
If you’re looking for a reliable place to order medications during the pandemic, check out Maple Leaf Meds. If you’re not able to find what you’re looking for on the site, feel free to reach out to us.