How to Start Fresh After an Addiction
It’s always good to start things on a clean slate. Whether that be approaching a work project, rekindling an old friendship, or settling a dispute after an argument, it’s always good to start anew.
It’s like waking up on the right side of the bed for once.
When it comes to addiction, people are often striving for that moment where they can start fresh. It might be their first day in rehab, their first day out of rehab, or a day where they realize they need change.
There is no “perfect” time for starting fresh and it looks different for each person.
How should you make sure to start fresh after an addiction?
Reconnect with Your Support Group
With coronavirus measures being eased around the country, more and more people are happy they can see friends and family in person instead of a Zoom call or FaceTime.
Being around your peers is a way to be around others who have been in a similar situation to yours and you’ll find it’s much easier to start fresh when you have others to help keep you accountable.
Focus on Physical Wellbeing
One way to start fresh is to feel fresh. It’s time to prioritize your health and wellbeing. This doesn’t mean you have to start training for the upcoming Ironman, but physical wellbeing can start with something as simple as a daily walk.
Ditch the junk and processed foods and stock up on plenty of fruits and veggies. Make sure you’re getting an hour of physical activity a day. Not sure where to start? Check out this page from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
Stay Busy With a New Hobby
Finding ways to constantly stay sober and free of temptation can be difficult. There could be triggers all around you from something in your home to even a place you drive by on the way to work.
One way to keep your mind busy is by jumping headfirst into a new hobby. Start by asking if there was a hobby you abandoned or something you always had on the backburner.
Here are some basic ideas:
Reading
Writing a blog or your own book
Painting or drawing
Video games
Learning a new life skill like programming or car maintenance
Hiking, camping, wilderness exploration
Learning how to play a musical instrument
Sticking With a Program
We all know just because you decide to start fresh doesn’t mean it’s going to be sunshine and rainbows from here on out. In fact, the hardest part of your journey is yet to come.
Being with your support group is one thing but sticking with an AA program or any 12-step program is vital to your success. Make sure you continue seeking help when need-be and look to get better each day.
Starting fresh is anything but easy but we here at the Walker Center are here to help. Reach out and contact us for any suggestions or help.
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