Maintaining your sobriety takes a lot of hard work and dedication. Along with attending counseling and spending time with likeminded individuals also in recovery, you must fill your days with healthy, rewarding activities that are good for your body and soul.
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, these essential steps may not be possible. Accordingly, self-care is crucial to stay on the right track and avoid a relapse. Here are a few useful relapse prevention tools to put in your arsenal so you can overcome this challenging time and look towards a brighter future.
Be Able to Recognize the Signs of a Possible Relapse
Stress is unavoidable right now, whether you’re concerned about employment or worried about your loved ones falling. As stress levels rise, your chance of a relapse also increases. This can lead a person to unhealthy
coping mechanisms, such as drug or alcohol use. You may also find yourself losing faith in your recovery plan given the state of the world.
Feelings of depression or disillusionment are natural right now, but it’s up to you to channel your energies into positive pursuits when things get tough. Look for ways to decrease stress naturally, whether that’s spending time meditating, pursuing a hobby that you love, or talking with loved ones about your struggles.
Connect With Counselors and Support Groups Virtually
Technological advances ensure you can remain in touch with the important people in your life, even if you must remain physically isolated. Ask your counselor about virtual meetings so you have access to the proper mental health support. Many support groups also offer virtual meetings, which are the next best thing to being in the presence of those that understand what you’re going through.
Connection is more important than ever right now. Feelings of loneliness and isolation can increase the desire to use the substance of your choice, but people in your support circle can help. If you’re a person of faith, you can also look into attending church virtually, which ensures you’re also spiritually fulfilled.
Establish a Safe Exercise Routine
When it comes to stress and depression, exercise is beneficial. If you normally work out at a gym, consider adapting your routine to your home. Jogging is a great activity that can be done safely, provided you obey the proper social distancing measures and wear a mask when applicable.
You can also look for fitness and workout videos online, many of which are available free of charge. If you’ve always been interested in trying yoga, now is a great time to get started. There are also plenty of other videos available, including those for people with limited mobility, which ensures you can meet fitness goals safely.
Put Your Thoughts and Feelings Into a Journal
Parsing complicated feelings about addiction and the state of the world can be confusing. If you’re having trouble putting these feelings into words, try writing them down in a journal. You’d be surprised at how beneficial journaling is for putting your thoughts into order.
If you’re having a hard time getting started, look up some journal prompts. Here are a few to get you started:
- What is your happiest memory?
- What things in your life make you smile?
- What are you most grateful for?
- What would you say to your future self?
No matter what’s happening in the world, Duke City Recovery Toolbox is here to support you through this and other difficult times. Our kind and caring recovery counselors provide the essential tools for you to not only maintain sobriety, but to have a rich and fulfilling life. Please call (505) 224-9777 so we can help you find the best solution to the challenges posed by COVID-19
