It may be no surprise that 2020 will go down in history as one of the most challenging years, on all levels, ever endured. Unfortunate loss of life, strain on families with struggling finances and differing opinions, and lack of general human interaction are some of the stresses endured to say the least. Due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, we have all had to change how we socialize with loved ones, co-workers, neighbors, and even customers. With ‘staying home mandates’ for the health and safety of vulnerable communities, isolation is an understatement. Therefore, it’s of no wonder why more and more people have turned to their addiction of choice to cope with the uncertainty. In fact, according to Nielsen, alcohol sales skyrocketed by 54 percent in late March compared to that time last year. With online sales increasing by a staggering 500 percent in April alone! For individuals struggling with addiction, 2020 tops the charts for most difficult it may seem. That being said, there is an awareness now too being seen and addressed by humanity at large. In recovery for getting sober, there are more options today than ever before. Hence the importance of mentioning the top 5 tools for getting sober in 2021. These important tools can help an individual navigate what is best for themselves or a loved one in need of sober health treatment and success.
1. Identify The Personal Triggers Associated With Addiction
A big part of getting sober in 2021 is understanding your personal triggers such as people, places, things, and situations that elicit thoughts or cravings associated with the addiction. There are also internal triggers such as feelings, thoughts, and emotions associated with addiction that would be wise to address. Once you identify your biggest risks, you can create a plan to prepare for or avoid them. Some common triggers may include; stress, emotional distress, environmental cues that result in cravings, unhealthy relationships with family/friends/romantic, job or financial problems, and boredom.
2. Avoid Unhealthy Relationships And Risky Situations
Once we establish triggers, becoming aware of our weaknesses is equally important. Whether it be wanting to reach out to people from the past, or visiting familiar places for the sake of comfort, avoiding risky situations is imperative. Avoiding the people and places that have enabled your negative habits and addiction can help with getting sober in 2021. Instead of visiting the unhealthy places you used to frequent during your addiction, such as bars, friends houses, or restaurants- seek a more self nourishing place. The local park or nature, movie theatre, arcade, local coffee house, or even volunteering can all help keep the temptation at bay. Taking ownership of where you put your thoughts, time, and effort can pay off as one of the best tools for getting sober in 2021!
3. Stay Focused On The Things That Nourish Your Well Being
Whether it be a hobby, exercise routine, volunteering, reading or jamming out to your favorite music, all positive actions can pay off. Staying focused on the things that ‘fill your cup’ so to speak, can assist with getting sober in 2021. With an added exercise routine for example, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain as well as trigger a positive feeling in the body. While volunteering for a good cause close to your heart is also a great way to nourish the mind and give yourself a boost. Such activities can have a positive impact on those suffering from addiction as they help to build relationships with new friends who are perhaps like-minded and supportive. A sober health facility can assist with helping an individual seeking recovery stay focused on such activities too. Maui Recovery for example, provides unique treatment modalities such as surfing, and equine therapy all in the heart of paradise. Nourishing the self core is at the heart of finding a true path toward recovery.
4. Find And Build A New Support Group
Another essential tool for getting sober in 2021 is rebuilding a new foundation stronger than ever before. Reaching out to close friends and family members who have had a positive influence on your life is a great start. And on the opposite, being honest with those who have endured personal hardships that came with your addiction can also be healing. When an individual experiences an addiction disorder, they may push away and/or hurt the ones who matter most. However, most of the time anyone who truly cares about your well-being will understand and appreciate open communication. Every ship weathers a storm at some point, but those that have pushed through the hard seas with their crew always sail stronger. Having a strong support system, whether a person(s) or sober health treatment center, can be the difference between a future good or bad decision. Something as simple as having a friend’s phone number on speed-dial can make a difference, as they can help talk you out of an unfortunate situation. Staying open and honest is key in building a solid foundation for getting sober in 2021.
5. Seek A Sober Health Facility For Getting Sober In 2021
One of the best tools a person wanting sober health treatment can utilize is finding a facility that best fits their needs. Seeking professional treatment from a comprehensive sober health facility can be the biggest move for getting sober in 2021. At Maui Recovery, we provide programs where our members receive counseling & treatment for several hours per day, 6 days a week. We provide dynamic programs that address the Whole Self, transforming a shame core to a love core and cultivating meaningful human connection, intimacy, and purposeful living.
Helping to release & break through the barriers that have been keeping them blocked from the sunlight of the spirit. Our residential program offers housing in a beautiful serene place in a 24 hour monitored sober environment, just 750 ft from the Pacific Ocean. We welcome, nurture, and care for individuals and families through their recovery for getting sober by empowering their restoration & healing from addiction.
