10 Tips for Helping You with Your Long-Term Recovery

Updated on March 1, 2019

Recovering from an addiction is a long-term process, however, there are many things an addict can do to make the journey easier. Here are ten top tips that’ll help someone in long-term recovery for a substance use disorder. 

1. Work with a Treatment Specialist or Center

It is important to work with a professional. By doing so, they can provide correct information regarding the substances you may be addicted to, how to detox properly and coping mechanisms for when you are heading out into the real world.

 2. Attend Meetings and Support Groups

Long-term abstinence is easier if there is a network of support available. Be sure to engage in meetings and support groups so that you can meet others who could help you with your current situation. 

3. Learn to Love Themselves Again

It’s important for a person struggling with addiction to love themselves again. You may suffer from low self-esteem and not see your true self-worth, but by learning to love yourself, you can start to rebuild any confidence you may have lost.  

4. Learn to Live in the Moment

Learning how to live without worrying about your past and any mistakes you may have made is crucial. We are, after all, only human. Therefore, learn to let go and move on. 

5. Avoid Unhelpful Triggers

It’s helpful to stay away from places that were once familiar to your addiction. For example, a person with an alcohol use disorder should stay away from bars and parties where they consumed alcohol, and to begin with, it may be good to avoid bars and pubs altogether. 

6. Plan for Relapse

Relapses are a common hurdle, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the recovery journey if you succumb to it. The skills already learned for coping with addiction can be used again, and the journey can continue. 

7. Take Things Slow and Steady

It’s important for a person struggling with an addiction to understand they have to take things slowly. They might be filled with a new enthusiasm for life, but it takes time to readjust to a new way of living. 

8. Make New Friends

It can be tempting to try to fit back in with your old friends even if they say they will support you to stay sober. However, if they continue with their own substance abuse, they’re not heading in the same direction. The health and happiness of a person in recovery depends on them staying away from situations that can stimulate their own memories. Finding new friends to spend time with is vital. 

9. Find New Activities

To lead a sober life in the long-term means filling the gap with new activities. Finding something engaging, enjoyable and constructive will help set their life on a better path. 

10.Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle

A regular exercise routine and a healthy diet will make a world of difference. Energy levels will increase, along with a sense of well-being and feelings of confidence. You can also get a natural high from exercise and clean eating. 

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