Personal boundaries are rules that a person establishes to ensure their own
comfort and safety. Boundaries, which can involve emotions, physical contact, and verbal interactions, are an important aspect of mental health, especially when a person is in recovery from a substance abuse issue.
Creating boundaries is often difficult, but doing so can help you develop and maintain healthy relationships with others. If you’re struggling with boundary setting in your own life, these tips may be able to help.
State Your Needs Clearly and Concisely
Boundaries are best introduced with clear, concise language. Simply state what you need to feel safe and comfortable and explain what will happen if the boundary isn’t respected. Don’t feel the need to provide too many details or explain why the boundary is important to you, as this may be taken as an invitation for debate. Be assertive in your boundary setting to ensure you and others are on the same page when it comes to your needs.
Start With Small Boundaries
Smaller boundaries are a good starting point, as they involve fewer stakes than more substantial boundaries. For instance, you may ask that a loved one who frequently interrupts you to let you finish speaking from here on out. Once you get accustomed to setting small boundaries, you can then move to more important issues, like requesting that others in your life refrain from drinking or taking drugs in your presence now that you’re in recovery.
Practice Maintaining Your Boundaries
It can be helpful to devise a script for discussions about boundaries to keep you on track. Also, practicing your script prevents you from becoming flustered and tongue-tied when you actually need to enforce your boundaries with someone. Along with practicing in a mirror, speaking your boundaries to a supportive sober friend is excellent practice, as this person can provide tips and feedback.
We Can Help You Build a Solid Sober Foundation
Recovery is filled with lots of obstacles, but Duke City Recovery Toolbox can be your trusted guide throughout the process. Our addiction recovery services are provided on an outpatient basis, which means you can remain involved in your life while working on your sobriety. We also offer access to therapy and counseling to support your mental wellbeing during the process. Call (505) 224-9777 today to schedule an appointment or contact us for more information.
