18 Sep How To Build Sober Living Skills After Treatment?
Accepting there is a problem and taking the step toward treatment is the beginning of the road to recovery. Not only can this be an extremely memorable moment, but it also can feel life changing. Committing to treatment and weathering the various emotions that inevitably arise is something to be proud of. Life in early recovery may have been a sensitive time for some individuals, but the journey continues to require commitment and fortitude. Building sober living skills after treatment is a way to ensure a mentally and physically healthier lifestyle in the long run. An alumni program can help individuals successfully navigate their way through the ups and downs of recovery.
Putting Life Skills Into Action
An individual’s thought process must change to find positive behaviors that can significantly make a positive difference. A person’s actions show true character.
Troy has strongly emphasized the importance of learning skills, changing behaviors, and consistently implementing good habits. He believes those things are truly essential to living a happy life and enjoying long-term sobriety. If an individual forgets to use the life skills needed to maintain abstinence, they will be at an increased risk for relapse. Sober living skills may include:
- Setting goals for the future
- Developing a support network
- Discovering sober activities and events
- Sticking to a consistent routine
- Using tools learned in therapy when experiencing discomfort
- Staying positive
Acquiring Sober Living Skills and a Positive Mindset
As stated in the Substances Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), individuals who are in recovery may have high expectations for a successful outcome in recovery. Many individuals strive to reach their full potential knowing they are at risk for relapse. The foundation of recovery is the underlying belief that a condition’s associated challenges can be conquered. A confident mindset at the outset makes a huge difference in the eventual outcome.
For best results, the skills used during one’s time in treatment should be implemented into everyday life. Sober living skills may consist of a person’s talents, coping mechanisms, values, and strengths. An individual’s peers, friends, family, and community overall can serve as a network for additional support and can be a valuable resource for finding self-care strategies.
Everybody takes their unique path to recovery. This may include outpatient treatment, medications, faith-based approaches, holistic care, and group therapy. According to a publication by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), group therapy can help individuals develop improved communication skills and social networks. Group therapy can be a highly effective modality across the continuum of care. Engaging with peers can help a person receive support during their journey in recovery.
The Four Levels of Recovery
According to the aforementioned SAMSHA study, setbacks are a common factor in recovery. Diligence becomes a crucial part of recovery. Focusing on these four dimensions while in recovery can create a strong foundation. These include:
- Health: Making healthy changes
- Home: Living in a stable environment
- Purpose: Structing one’s life
- Community: Having social networks for support
The Benefits of Using Sober Living Skills
When an individual chooses to surround themselves with like-minded people, this can promote a healthy way of life. Spending time with other men doing sober activities can make recovery less boring. Networking with others can bring new positive opportunities. Sober activities may include joining a sports league. It also could include participating in adventure therapy, group therapy, young adult ministry, or attending alumni events.
Although the primary goals were achieved in treatment, new goals can be made to stay motivated during recovery. Each goal achieved can help a person build the confidence needed for long-term sobriety. Establishing a routine can create the balance needed to stay in a good mental state.
Choosing to end the day by thinking positive thoughts promotes good self-care. It is always beneficial for an individual to be thankful for everything that has helped them reach each recovery milestone. Recognizing everything that has brought them to recovery can help them continuously use these strategies to maintain abstinence from drugs and alcohol.
Maintaining Sober Living Skills Alumni Program
Taking time to read about different sober living skills and self-help strategies can ensure a strong foundation for long-term recovery. Choosing to use skills consistently during periods where exposures, triggers, and cravings are problematic can be very beneficial for those who stand by their sober principles.
In using evidence-based practices to maintain a sober lifestyle. Finding positive and productive distractions with peers can be extremely helpful in preventing a drug and or alcohol relapse. If an individual is struggling with life after treatment.
After an individual completes each phase in their treatment program, they will then transition to independent living. Some individuals may seek continued support from the sober community they have developed over time.