You’ll notice an increase in energy levels, better sleep patterns, and an overall improvement in physical appearance. Studies show that individuals in recovery experience a significant improvement in liver function, heart health, and a decrease in the risk of certain cancers. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is another critical component in the intersection of sobriety and mental health. MAT can alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings, thus supporting sobriety, but it can also address underlying mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.
- There’s no more not caring if they see your cellulite or whatever you’re hiding under there; and you will, once and for all, discover that sex is never like in the movies.
- There are people for which sobriety is a deal-breaker.
- Embarking on this path isn’t just about saying no to a drink or a pill; it’s a commitment to a healthier, more aware version of yourself.
- Perhaps a hiking trip to Machu Picchu, or a food tour of France?
Understand what you get out of drinking alcohol
For example, you may have developed a co-dependent relationship, or a family member, friend, or employer may have been enabling you without even knowing it. John C. Umhau, MD, MPH, CPE is board-certified in addiction medicine and preventative medicine. He is the medical director at Alcohol Recovery Medicine. https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/what-reasons-for-you-to-stay-sober/ For over 20 years Dr. Umhau was a senior clinical investigator at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). I don’t have that much sex, and that’s more like me saying, I no longer lower my standards and sleep with just anyone because of beer goggles.
- Or, you might invite your friends to join you in these places as a way to encourage sober activities.
- The chart below shows the maximum Social Security benefit for newly awarded retired workers at different ages.
- Tetrault outlines some short- and long-term treatment and therapy options that can help you achieve abstinence.
- In the realm of addiction recovery, sobriety is not a destination but a continuous path of self-improvement and discovery.
Question About Treatment
You do not have to be good at any of it, but the act of creating adds so much color. Now that you’ve stopped drinking, you have time to explore sober network new things. More than likely, someone will take the initiative to include you. Give it time, and you’ll start to get to know people.
You can have fun and stay sober.
I’ve always wanted to learn how to tailor clothes and upcycle old furniture. This is related to taking a class in a lot of ways. Working with your hands is actually a lot of fun. Do not spend a single brain cell worrying about if it’s cool or not. Are there any adventure tours or parks in your areas? Depending on where you live, you can do all kinds of things.
Join groups and activities that focus on health.
If you’re not ready or willing to change those behaviors and thoughts, then treatment cannot do what it’s designed to do. As described by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment program for addiction. Therefore, it’s important to ask questions to ensure that the program you want meets all of your needs. There are multiple factors to consider, including cost, reviews, licensing, accreditations, amenities, and treatments. With help from a healthcare professional, you can start looking for a treatment program that meets all of your unique needs.
Learn to Manage Stress
Obviously, you aren’t likely to avoid alcohol all the time. Weddings, shows, and even art galleries usually serve alcohol. And, of course, your friends may want to go to bars, clubs, or other events where alcohol is one of the main attractions. It’s up to you to decide how much information to share and who to share it with. You certainly don’t have to justify your decision.
- Try multi-player versions if you like competition.
- For opioid use disorder, medications like methadone and buprenorphine are evidence-based treatment options that help reduce patient harm and improve outcomes, including achieving abstinence.
- Going alcohol-free doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a fun, fizzy beverage.
- You’ve completed your treatment in a California rehab center and you’re ready to start building your new, sober life.
- Or you might rather spend time volunteering for a good cause, like an animal shelter or children’s hospital.
Give it time and rely on your support systems online and in real life to provide positive social interactions while you figure out this whole sober friends thing. But it becomes a little easier if you can connect with people over shared interests that don’t inherently involve drinking. Here’s a solid list of sober activities that are actually fun, whether you’re trying to cut back on drinking or just want to add a little variety to your life. Many times, we drink because it’s just a way to not feel like an outsider.