The people around us have a stronger influence on our decisions and actions than we realize. Here’s what research reveals about our networks’ gravitational force. Get the help you need from a therapist near you–a FREE service from Psychology Today. William Berry is a psychotherapist and teaches at Florida International University. His area of interest is substance abuse and individual happiness.
Little did I know I was living in a box within my addiction. My whole life revolved around the substances, from my social circle to how I spent my free time. You take the substance away and it’s like taking away all I know. I didn’t know that there was a whole world out there to explore. I didn’t realize there’s cool people who don’t use drugs and I could pick and choose who to hangout with.
Feeling Like Being Sober Sucks? 12 Tips for Feeling Better
They often desperately want to do the right thing but are unsure which tack to take. Often-times in recovery, being sober seems to be the aim. Yes, it is a crucial and a fundamental part (the beginning aspect) of starting the journey to full scale “recovery,” but the independent process of avoiding drugs and alcohol is nowhere near true freedom. Ultimately, however, communicating directly and planning ahead will help avoid problems later. The recovering person has a responsibility to take care of themselves, but family and friends can definitely help.
I would go on walks a few times a week because getting high and walking is super fun. I socialized with people more because people are more fun and entertaining and easy to talk to after a few glasses of wine. I’ve been waiting for the clarity of sobriety to wash over me and improve my life, but I think I might be someone who’s better off lost in the sauce.
I hate being sober, how do people like it?
We welcome anyone who wishes to join in by asking for support, sharing our experiences and stories, or just encouraging someone who is trying to quit. Please post only when sober; you’re welcome to read in the meanwhile. I can being sober sucks guarantee you almost anyone who used to drink and party will tell you the road to sobriety is not fun. If you sit and actually have an inquisitive, conversation with us and not instantly judge us, because we are not drinking.
- I hated being sober because it was boring.
- Yet, the patient reported that having at least one other supportive “abstainer” with him made him feel better and more comfortable.
- I have half a decade without drugs and alcohol, but sometimes I’m more miserable than I ever was when I was getting high.
- Remember and use your tools that you have already used to win over these feelings.
No matter what happened yesterday or even five minutes ago, you can choose to be patient with yourself, reassess, and pivot as needed. Get coffee with a friend to take your mind off relationship problems. Ask for extra hours at work if you’re having a hard time with roommates. Head out of town with some sober friends for a few hours to get a change of scenery. In such instances, it may be best to make no special accommodations for the individual; doing so would only increase a potentially unwelcome focus for that person. In other cases, it will be very much appreciated to offer alternatives in both focus and activity to create a fun and inclusive environment.
Balancing holiday parties with guests in recovery.
When the smallest things could mesmerize you? From being outside sweaty, running around and playing with bugs in the mud, to laughing at farts (I still do that) and wrestling with your friends. There is such a calm presence with children because they haven’t yet been mentally affected by themselves. They don’t care about yesterday or tomorrow.
- The other people next to you at group therapy sessions and support group meetings all have experiences that can help you.
- Or maybe those crotchety old-timers like to complain about life.
- Even if you are making one small choice to improve how you feel each day, like working out more or eating better, track it.
- It is not the mere fact that I am away from mind-altering substances, but it is because of the spiritual actions that can free my mind from itself.
- You have the power to make changes that will improve your life, make sobriety more interesting, and connect with awesome people who can help you enjoy your life in recovery.
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