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Things That Could Derail Your Sobriety

a woman sits up in bed at night thinking about what can derail her sobriety

It’s a long road when it comes to getting sober. Many things can derail your sobriety, from the temptation to distractions. But by staying focused on your goals and avoiding the things that could derail your sobriety, you can stay strong in your journey toward a healthier, happier life.

Whether it’s finding new hobbies or spending time with supportive friends and family, there are many things you can do to help stay on track and avoid the pitfalls that could derail your sobriety. So take some time to identify your triggers and find ways to overcome them so that you can stay focused and committed to your recovery.

At Michael’s House, our sober living program can help provide the support and resources you need to keep on track and achieve lasting sobriety. Contact us today at 760.548.4032 to learn more about how we can help you on your journey.

Things that Could Derail Your Sobriety

You have gotten past a lot of hurdles to get sober. It’s been a tough road, but it’s been worth it. The following things could derail your sobriety and set you back at square one. Find out what they are and learn how to keep your sobriety in check.

Being Around Friends Who Are Using

You may think you can keep your old drug friends around because they promise not to use them in front of you. But think about it. Can you trust that they always do what’s in your best interest? People with drug addictions often say things they cannot back up with actions. It doesn’t mean they don’t want to be helpful to you. They have lost control, and so could you if you stay around them.

Losing Touch with Your Addiction Support

Your support network could include your friends and acquaintances from AA, people you got to know in drug rehab, or maybe even your sponsor. Being in touch with close friends and family who care is great. But you can’t lose track of people who know the real dangers of addiction. They can help catch red flags of relapse that others might miss.

Deciding You Can Achieve Recovery Without Support

Isolation is a close friend of addiction. It keeps you away from fresh ideas and perspectives. Human beings can easily over-interpret bad things or fail to appreciate the small blessings in life. Having other caring people around you keeps you reaching out instead of just looking inward.

Quitting Drug Rehab Early

Unfortunately, some individuals have opted out of their drug treatment plan at least once or more. If they found their way back to sobriety, it’s most likely because they stuck with a treatment program and opened themselves up to the process. Give drug rehab a complete chance and give yourself a full chance at sobriety.

Avoiding Necessary Life Changes

Imagine that you avoided dealing with your money issues when you came out of drug treatment. If this was a significant stressor during your active addiction days, it could still trigger relapse in the future. Whether it’s your finances, legal problems, unemployment, or something else, your sobriety will go more smoothly if you face these issues head-on. Find someone to help you with these problems, make some changes, and the stress won’t threaten your sobriety anymore.

Letting Healthy Habits Slip

In drug rehab, you learn or relearn many healthy habits. Eating right, getting good sleep, starting an exercise plan, and relaxing are all necessary for a healthy, sober lifestyle. But it’s easy to let these habits slip away if you aren’t paying close attention. Join other people who exercise regularly, cook with friends, or set reminders so you can keep these essential habits going.

Losing Focus on Staying Sober

Mental drift happens to everyone. You get complacent, justify loosening your standards, and hardly notice what’s happening. Soon, your sobriety is just one of those things rolling around in your mind. Keep in touch with your sober network, and you’ll keep sobriety at the top of your list.

Failing to See Your Progress

It might not always feel like it, but you are making daily progress in your recovery journey. Keep a journal or work with a therapist to track your progress and stay motivated by seeing just how far you have come.

Letting Distractions Derail Your Sobriety

It can be incredibly tempting to focus on things like work, hobbies, or other time-consuming activities that take your mind off the daily challenges of staying sober. But those distractions are just derailers—they will only weaken your resolve and increase the chances of a relapse. Focus on your sobriety first, and you will be better able to enjoy other activities.

You can keep yourself on track for lifelong recovery. And remember that staying connected with others is one of the most important ways to stay sober. So don’t hesitate to seek help and support whenever you need it. With the right mindset and a commitment to staying sober, there is no limit to what you can achieve.

Derailing Sobriety Can Happen

Although relapse is always possible for somebody trying to maintain sobriety, it does not predict your future or mean you are doomed to a life of addiction. There is always hope, even if you experience setbacks and moments where it seems you will never achieve sobriety. Some tips for staying focused on sobriety include:

  • Focusing on your overall recovery plan and staying committed to the process
  • Seeking out support and guidance from others in your recovery network
  • Maintaining healthy habits such as staying active, eating well, and getting enough sleep and relaxation
  • Staying mindful of your progress, even when you feel like you are not moving forward as quickly as you’d like

No matter how often you feel like derailing your sobriety, never forget that there is always another chance waiting around the corner, so keep pushing towards the new and healthier version of yourself.

Learn More Ways to Prevent Distractions from Affecting Your Sobriety at Michael’s House

Establishing a healthy lifestyle and focusing on your sobriety at Michael’s House is possible. Here at Michael’s House, we have a range of programs and services to support you in your journey toward lifelong recovery. We offer addiction treatment, from detox and residential treatment to outpatient programs and aftercare services. If you feel that your recovery may be in danger, we can help. Our recovery professionals are available, day and night, to take your calls. Recovery is within reach. Contact us today at 760.548.4032.

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