Overcoming an alcohol use disorder is not an easy journey, but it’s one that is worthwhile. After going through alcohol rehab in AZ, it’s important to have a plan in place to maintain sobriety and avoid relapse. You may think that relapse won’t happen to you, but it’s actually very common in early recovery. And while relapse is certainly not failure, it is a setback.
Fortunately, there are many strategies that you can use to support long-term recovery. Below are five of the most effective ways to stay sober after completing Arizona rehab.
1. Create a Support Network
One of the most important steps in staying sober is to create a support network of people who understand and support your recovery. This can include family members, friends, therapists and support groups like AA or NA.
Humans crave social connections, though you may have forgotten this since addiction is an isolating disease. But now that you are sober, it’s important to foster social connections to increase your self-esteem, feel accepted by others and receive support as you go through the ups and downs of recovery.
To create a strong support network, you’ll also need to end your relationships with toxic people. Your recovery comes first, so right now is a time to be with those who love and support your journey.
2. Avoid or Manage Triggers
Triggers are situations or people that can lead to cravings or relapse. Unfortunately, you can’t avoid triggers at all times, so it’s important to know how to deal with them. A large part of maintaining your sobriety is by identifying your triggers and developing strategies to avoid or manage them.
Some of the best ways to manage your triggers include:
- Exercising
- Eating nutritious meals
- Using positive distractions
- Reframing negative attitudes
- Spending time with positive people
- Practicing meditation
- Joining a support group
3. Develop Healthy Habits
Alcohol use can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Once you go through alcohol rehab in Prescott Arizona, you’ll need to replace poor habits with healthy ones like regular exercise, a balanced diet and stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga.
It takes time to re-establish healthy habits, so take things slow and focus on one goal at a time. Here is a great article on how to break the unhealthy habits that may have led to your addiction, such as binge eating, not getting enough sleep, negative self-talk or misusing prescription medications.
4. Practice Self-Care
When you feel good mentally and physically, it’s easier to stay on track with your recovery. Make self-care a priority after Prescott AZ alcohol rehab. In addition to eating healthy, getting enough rest and exercising, also set boundaries, say no to things that don’t serve your recovery and find healthy outlets for managing stress and anxiety.
Recovery is a lifelong journey, so getting in the habit of taking care of yourself now will greatly serve you in the long run. You’ll be able to better manage stressful situations, lower your risk for illness and increase your energy. Addiction can rob you of these things, but self-care can help you get them back.
5. Stay Connected with Your Treatment Team
Lastly, stay connected with your treatment team. They can provide ongoing support and guidance as you navigate life after Arizona alcohol rehab. Many treatment programs offer aftercare and alumni groups that make it easier for people in recovery to stay connected, celebrate milestones and face challenges together.
Furthermore, if you ever feel that you’re at risk for relapse, you can reach out to your treatment team, and they can make changes to your aftercare plan that prevent relapse. Life is always in motion, so expect your aftercare plan to change from time to time. For example, if you lose a loved one, your therapist may recommend additional therapy and support groups.
Live Better While in Recovery
Staying sober after alcohol rehab in Arizona is a journey, and there may be setbacks along the way. However, by taking these five steps and staying committed to your recovery, you can build a fulfilling life free from addiction. To learn more about starting a life of sobriety, contact the admissions team at Wolf Creek Recovery today.
