So you've recognized you have an alcohol or substance abuse problem and sought addiction help. Congratulations, you've taken a major step toward recovery! Here are tips that will help you along your path to a substance free life.
Difficulty: N/A
Time Required: Varies
Here's How:
- Make plans. Don’t leave extra unplanned time or isolate yourself. Keeping busy can help curb the temptation to use.
- Bookend non-sober functions with sober activities- meetings, phone calls, fellowships. Let your sponsor or a trusted friend know if you will be at a function where there will be alcohol or other substances. The best thing to do is steer clear of such activities, but if you must go, attend another sober activity as soon as possible. This can be a phone call to your sponsor, a meeting or fellowship.
- Volunteer your time. Often times, helping others helps keep the focus away from addiction. Feel good about yourself by giving back to others.
- Spend time with a sober friends- people with strong sobriety. The positive influences of peer pressure can have a lasting sober affect. Surround yourself with a network of sober people. Talk openly and share in each other's strength.
- Take your own sober beverage/food/candy to parties. If you keep your own sober stash, you won't feel left out. Plus, you can satisfy any urges to use in a sober way.
- If you've come this far on your path to recovery, you should know your triggers- people, places, things that give you the urge to use. If need be, avoid a relapse by avoiding bars, old friends who still use or situations that might tempt you to use again.
- Avoid HALT (becoming too Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired). I know, as a person who suffers from depression, that hunger, anger, loneliness and fatigue can trigger a period of sadness. The same holds true for addicts and alcohol and drug use.
- Write about your feelings and talk about resentments. Journaling or blogging is a great way positively channel your energy. Random Thoughts on Being Gay-n-Sober is a great example of how you can use your gift of expression to help you stay sober.
- Talk to your higher power and reflect on your gratitude. Break the mold of traditional religion and find a spiritual center that can help you stay focused on your path to self-discovery. This index of gay-friendly churches can help you find a spiritual home.
