Staying sober after treatment requires diligent effort. Treatment programs are designed to provide you with the tools for maintaining sobriety, but it’s up to you to keep up with treatment. Many people can benefit from aftercare programs and continuing support from a treatment center to feel confident in their long-term sobriety.
If you want to know more about continuing care or an aftercare program, contact Blueprint Recovery Center today by calling 833.654.1004 or completing our online contact form. To equip you with the knowledge you need, our team has outlined some essential tips for maintaining sobriety and enjoying the benefits of living sober.
Staying Vigilant
Vigilance is perhaps the most essential component of achieving long-term recovery. All too often, people who attend treatment consider themselves “fixed” and let their guard down. This can quickly lead to a relapse into substance use and addiction. Keeping your recovery at the forefront can help you maintain the habits you’ve learned to cope with addictive behaviors.
Some of the best ways to stay focused on recovery include:
- Attending an aftercare program
- Participating in addiction support groups
- Working with an addiction counselor or recovery coach
- Helping others in recovery
These simple habits can keep you focused on your recovery and help you maintain sobriety.
Building Recovery Capital
Recovery capital refers to a set of resources that can help you achieve and maintain sobriety. Building recovery capital means improving your physical health, strengthening your support system, and generally building a fulfilling life free of drugs and alcohol. The beauty of recovery capital is that it is whatever you want it to be.
Some great ways to build recovery capital are:
- Finding a hobby you’re passionate about
- Starting an exercise regimen
- Seeking fulfilling work
- Improving your connections with family and friends
These types of activities can both enrich your life and give you a substantial reason to avoid returning to substance use.
Building a Sober Support Network
Social support is one of the best indicators of long-term recovery. Building a network that supports your recovery can go a long way toward maintaining sobriety. Your sober support network holds you accountable, lets you reach out to others in hard times, and keeps you away from groups that can push you towards relapse.
Addiction treatment programs are designed to help you build these support networks while still receiving treatment. After leaving an intensive treatment program, stay committed to your recovery by maintaining these relationships.
Gratitude Journaling
Gratitude journaling is a practice that can help to remind you of the benefits of living sober. The practice of gratitude journaling is simple. You simply grab a piece of paper or a notebook and make a list of things you’re thankful for. There’s no right or wrong way to perform this practice, and you can go as in-depth as you like. According to recent research in the field of positive psychology, gratitude journaling can improve your sense of well-being, and people who enjoy their lives are less likely to relapse.
Knowing When to Seek Help
Sometimes, maintaining sobriety means recognizing that you can’t do it alone. In times like these, it’s a good idea to reach out to a supportive friend or a treatment center and let them know that your hold on sobriety is waning. Seeking help is a sign of courage and the best way to avoid potential relapse.
Find the Tools for Maintaining Sobriety at Blueprint Recovery Center
At Blueprint Recovery Center, we’re with you through every stage of the recovery process. From partial hospitalization to comprehensive aftercare programs, our expert team knows how best to support people in their new lives in recovery.
Contact our Blueprint Recovery Center by filling out our online form or calling 833.654.1004 to learn more about our addiction treatment options and start enjoying your new life sober today.
