It can be challenging to lead an active lifestyle after a history of substance abuse. Many things can trigger a relapse, such as boredom or stress. In fact, a study from the Journal of American Medical Association found that the rate of relapse among those with substance use disorders typically ranges from 40-60%.
However, it is possible to lead a healthy life without relying on drugs or alcohol. Here are five tips for leading an active lifestyle after a history of substance abuse:
1. Seek professional help.
If you feel like you’re still struggling to overcome addiction or maintain sobriety, it’s always best to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in treating substance abuse disorders first and foremost.
Moreover, inpatient drug rehabilitation treatments can help you develop coping mechanisms for triggers and provide additional support during difficult times. Most programs involve some form of individual and group therapy and other activities like meditation and yoga that can help you relax and stay focused on your recovery.
These are helpful because they can provide you with the tools and support necessary to stay on track with your sobriety goals. And that’s the most important thing to settle before anything else.
2. Find an activity that you enjoy and stick with it.
Next, it’s crucial to find an activity you enjoy to be more likely to stick with it. There are different types of activities to choose from, such as team sports, individual sports, or even just going for walks. The important thing is to find something that you enjoy and are committed to doing on a regular basis.
For example, if you enjoy playing basketball, make a point to play at least once a week. Or, if you prefer individual sports, consider going for runs or hikes on the weekends. The key is to find an activity you can do regularly to become a part of your lifestyle.
This is because getting in touch with your inner passion can lead to a more fulfilling life. When you have something to look forward to doing, it can help take your mind off of any negative thoughts or triggers that may lead to a relapse.
3. Set realistic goals.
When setting goals, it’s essential to be realistic. If you set goals that are too ambitious, you may become discouraged if you aren’t able to meet them. On the other hand, if you set goals that are too easy, you may become bored or complacent. Finding the right balance is key to maintaining your motivation.
An example of a realistic goal would be to commit to working out three times a week for 30 minutes each session. This is a goal that is achievable but will still require some effort on your part. Another example of a realistic goal would be to eat healthy meals five days out of the week. This goal is also achievable but will require you to make some changes to your diet.
In essence, when setting goals, it’s important to use the SMART goal-setting method. This acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This is an integral part of any healthy lifestyle, and it’s no different when recovering from a history of substance abuse.
4. Create a support system.
Having a support system is essential for staying on track. Family and friends can provide emotional support, while coaches or trainers can offer guidance and advice when it comes to your activity of choice.
There are also many online support groups available for those who prefer anonymity. There are also groups for specific activities, such as running or cycling. These groups can be a great way to stay motivated and find others who share your same interests.
Building a support system is vital because it can help you stay accountable for your goals. It can also give you the motivation to keep going when times get tough. In short, it’s essential to surround yourself with people who will support your efforts to live a healthy lifestyle.
5. Be prepared for setbacks.
Setbacks are inevitable, but it’s important not to let them derail your progress altogether. If you have a relapse, try to learn from it and make changes so that it doesn’t happen again. It’s also important to forgive yourself and move on so that you can continue making progress.
It can be helpful to create a simple journal that will help you track your progress. Each day, write down what you did to stay active and healthy. This can be anything from going for a walk to eating a healthy meal. At the end of each week, reflect on your accomplishments and celebrate your successes.
The bottom line is that leading an active lifestyle after a history of substance abuse is possible. It will take some effort and commitment on your part, but it is achievable. By following these tips, you can make healthy living a part of your life.
