Have you tried to get sober but found it difficult to maintain? Conversely, maybe you are afraid to give it a try. Because of that, you have put off trying to get better. While your fears may be real, our program can show you how to get better. We teach young people to understand the reality of long-term sobriety. We provide effective sober living homes. In addition, our management team helps keep you on track. As well, peer support from co-residents helps everyone stay on target.
What Is Considered Long-Term Sobriety?
People often assume getting sober is a one-time event. They think initial treatment makes them sober for life. However, this isn’t how it works. Long-term sobriety comes from making wise choices every day. Substance use disorders are chronic medical conditions. Because of this, relapse proves to be a real risk.
There isn’t just one definition for long-term sobriety. At least, not in terms of a set amount of time. Instead, most people know when they are in it. It means they have banked months and even years living a sober life. As a result, they don’t white-knuckle their way through each day. But in all honesty, each person must remain aware of staying in long-term sobriety. For this reason, they need the right treatment program.
Ways to Help Achieve Long-Term Sobriety
Learning how to enjoy long-term sobriety isn’t a mystery. As a matter of fact, employing tips to stay sober helps everyone. With this in mind, we compiled some ideas of ways to stay sober for life.
Support Groups
Recovery support groups help keep many people focused. They also help them be accountable. With this in mind, attend at least one support group regularly. This allows a person to receive and give support and advice.
Sober Living Homes
Sober living homes provide a drug- and alcohol-free place to live. As well, they are managed by people who understand how to support long-term sobriety. Additionally, living with roommates who have sobriety in common proves inspiring. Many sober living homes feature modern furnishings. They are also often located in desirable areas of town.
Sober Activities
At first, the idea of a life of sobriety can seem boring. So much so that many people end up isolating. Look for sober activities to enjoy. Many communities have organized events that do not allow alcohol or drugs. Alternatively, make sure activities with friends and family do not involve temptation. Avoid bars, parties, and cultural events that put the spotlight on alcohol or drugs. In fact, a person can throw a get-together of their own and control the guest list. This also allows them to set the rules.
Positive Effects of Long-Term Sobriety
Many positive effects of long-term sobriety exist. The obvious one is staying sober, but there are more. They include:
Physical health: Bodies no longer taking in large amounts of drugs and alcohol tend to become healthier. As well, many treatment programs help teach good nutrition along with exercise. Soon, the person becomes used to feeling healthy. As a consequence, they find it harder to go back to old habits.
Emotional Benefits: Many mood disorders accompany addiction. Becoming sober can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and more. As a result, many people find less reason to reach for drugs and alcohol.
Healthy Relationships: One of the first victims of long-term addiction involves relationships. People who achieve long-term sobriety often find improvement related to loved ones. They communicate better with family and friends. They also learn to repair past damage done by their addictions.
A More Positive Future: When substance use disorders disappear, people find it easier to have bright futures. They can plan and achieve goals. These can include career, school, and family objectives.
How to Prevent Relapse After Long-Term Sobriety
Because so many people end up relapsing, it’s important to try to prevent this. Not only does a person have the power to get sober, but they also can enjoy long-term sobriety. In fact, some basic approaches help keep people on the healing path.
Be Mindful of Triggers
Triggers can come from several sources. Identify events that may cause temptation to drink or use drugs. Also, take stock of any triggering relationships. As a result, a person can head off triggers before they take root. In short, limiting risky situations can keep a person sober for life.
Treat Mental Health Conditions
About half of people with an addiction also struggle with mental health. For this reason, it’s important to address any mental illnesses. When symptoms of mental illness improve, this often positively impacts a person’s sobriety. Therefore, it makes sense to work on both conditions at the same time.
Participate In Aftercare
After residential or outpatient treatment ends, many people think they no longer need help. However, the longer a person seeks help, the longer they tend to stay in long-term recovery. Aftercare programs can include individual or group therapy. Holistic therapy such as yoga, massage, and art therapy can help, too.
Join Our Sober Living to Help Achieve Long-Term Sobriety
Sobriety isn’t just a one-day event. Instead, living a sober life involves daily choices. Riviera Recovery in Los Angeles teaches you to enjoy long-term sobriety. Our sober living homes give young adults a safe place to live. We have a sober living home for women, as well as one for men. This allows for a comfort level many people seek when they receive long-term care. Visit our admissions page and find out how to get started. We will be happy to answer your questions. Let us help you become sober for life.
