For myself, I normally had beer or wine with dinner over the last four years or so. However, I noted that even that 1 to 2 drinks per night left me sleepy, and I did not get as much accomplished later in the evenings. I also have developed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation that is exercise-induced. I read a recent article that even moderate drinking of only 2 per night can irritate the heart and increase the likelihood of AFib. So, I am going alcohol-free for a month, to see if I accomplish more in the evenings and have fewer experiences of AFib. I started thinking about doing this because my son does alcohol-free Octobers yearly, and it seems like a great idea.

Every moment of sobriety is a success story, so don’t be afraid to celebrate milestones. If you took part in 12-step programs, you already know why this is one of the most important tips for staying sober in 2021. It’s vital that you acknowledge hard work and celebrate it. Reward yourself when you achieve recovery goals, and don’t be afraid to shout your success from the rooftops. Amanda is a prolific medical content writer specializing in eating disorders and addiction treatment.

Have a Buddy You Can Call for Support

In other words, instead of saying, “stop thinking about how far it is to the liquor store,” imagine you walk down there, buy the bottle of vodka, come home and start drinking. Imagine your sober streak disappearing and finishing the bottle that night. Imagine how your friend and family will feel and how it will effect your day the next day. Walk through your day-in-the-life scenario and imagine what it looks like to have lost your sobriety and goals. Imagine the conversations you’ll have with friends on why you did it.

Here is a toolkit of six coping skills to help you maintain sobriety when you find yourself in difficult moments. To inflame the issue, financial worries and issues holding https://ecosoberhouse.com/ down a job are triggers for relapse. As you transition back into daily life from either inpatient or outpatient rehab, creating a solid network around you is key.

Try meditation.

The symptoms involved in PAWS can be a barrier to recovery if you’re not careful. In addition to being able to recognize them, it’s important to know when to seek help. However, research suggests that while 12-step groups are effective, people often don’t continue their involvement at beneficial levels over the long term. It is estimated that up to 80% of those who find long-term sobriety had at least one relapse along the way. Buddy T is an anonymous writer and founding member of the Online Al-Anon Outreach Committee with decades of experience writing about alcoholism. “The staff at STR is as first class as they come. It’s nice to have people who genuinely care about their clients…” -Robert D.

From walking, jogging, and cycling to swimming, tennis, and yoga, find an activity you enjoy and stay active in your recovery. Alternatively, experiment with new ways of spending your free time. Imagination is your only limitation and you’ll soon be productively filling your time. To fill the expanse of time you’re not using substances, you could reengage with neglected hobbies and interests. Now is the time to take that piano lesson you’ve always thought about. Now is the time to join clubs, groups, gyms, memberships, whatever tickles your fancy. Doing what you used to do is going to trigger a desire to use.

Care for Your Mental Health

This adage holds particular significance for those going through recovery. Find something that you love doing tips to stay sober — whether it’s working out, volunteering or engaging in local politics — and jump headfirst into it.

Paint, music, creating short vidoes, you name it. There’s no shortage of hobbies and creative outlets. Some of the most creative people used artistic expression to showcase what they’re feeling. Don’t fear the struggles, let them out in a healthy way. It’s important to remember that you’re going to be craving alcohol to reward the short-term part of your brain, not the long term. Create some goals for yourself to remind yourself of what you’re working towards. Being sober can be stressful, but it doesn’t need to be — and it certainly won’t be forever.