How to Change Your Life After Long-Term Drug Addiction

Padlo’s story begins about as far away from opening a substance abuse treatment center as one could get. A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Padlo served for five years in the United States Army, spending 27 months on combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. He earned a Bronze Star and a Combat Action Badge rebuilding your life after addiction but, like many other veterans, returned home a changed person. Alcohol treatment and recovery is a lifelong process that requires commitment and changes in many aspects of a person’s life. Challenges at this stage of treatment include cravings, social pressure to drink, and high-risk situations that can trigger alcohol consumption.

Being able to ask for and accept help is a cornerstone of being successful. One helpful exercise is to think of what you wanted to be when you were a young child. Maybe you wanted to be a famous musician, an astronaut, a politician, a doctor, or a https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/who-sober-alcoholics-are-and-what-it-means-to-be-sober/ teacher. You do not have to act on them, no matter how much you think you want to do something in the heat of the moment. Any drug use that is recreational should be avoided, and in many cases, prescribed medications can be problematic as well.

Balance Work and Addiction Recovery: Tips for Success

In some cases, just carrying drug paraphernalia is enough to land an individual into legal hot water, resulting in fines or a criminal record. Rebuilding trust is the most important factor here, and it will require time and effort from both parties in the relationship. On the first day of recovery, you may experience withdrawal symptoms that can take the form of intense cravings and doubting yourself. For most, this is the hardest stage, as it requires an immense amount of willpower to continue on your part. A regular job can provide a sense of purpose, offer healthy distractions, and restore a feeling of normalcy during a challenging period.

If you’re struggling with grief in sobriety, don’t wait to get help. Reach out to Addiction Rehab Treatment to connect with compassionate medical professionals that will support you in your time of need. It’s important to realize that reintegrating into everyday life isn’t an immediate thing.

How do you know what you want to do when rebuilding your life after addiction?

Some people may find solace in art therapy, while others may find relief in physical activities like hiking, yoga, or team sports. The key is to find activities that align with personal values and provide a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. Whatever stage you are currently at in recovery from active addiction, now is a great time to reaffirm your commitment to moving forward and reevaluating your recovery program. When you put drugs and alcohol behind you, there is no limit to what you can accomplish. If you were like most people who have spent years drinking or using drugs, you likely did not have the best diet during that time.