How to Stay Positive During Your Recovery: Our Top 4 Tips

Recovering from an addiction is never easy. For any drug and alcohol treatment plan to be effective, a strong support network is crucial. It’s also important for the individual undergoing treatment to maintain a positive outlook and avoid the pitfalls of depression, anger, and anxiety.

Positive Sobriety Tips

If you’re adjusting to a life of sobriety after struggling with addiction, staying positive may seem like a daunting task – but keep in mind that many have walked this path before you. There are time-tested strategies that have worked for others. With a bit of planning and effort, they can work for you too.

1. Set Weekly Goals

An important first step to recovery is setting realistic goals for yourself. Completing each goal will help you to maintain a positive attitude and likely contribute to greater overall emotional and physical health. Try planning three events each week, writing them down, and checking them off once completed. These can be as simple as working out, reading a book, or volunteering with a local organization.

2. Keep Moving

One of the most direct ways to make yourself feel better is to exercise. Physical activity releases chemicals called endorphins which affect the pain receptors in the brain. This can lead to a diminished perception of pain or even a slight feeling of euphoria – i.e., the “runner’s high.”

You don’t have to be a gym rat to feel the positive effects of exercise. Simply spending more time outdoors hiking or walking will benefit your physical and emotional health. If you’re more of an indoor type, consider visiting a museum or library. This can involve a lot of walking, especially if you plan it as part of your commute.

3. Use Your Brain

Keeping your mind active is one of the best ways to stay positive. Reading or taking a class will allow you to continue educating yourself and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Creative pursuits can be an excellent emotional release – and they can be fun too. If you’re a writer, artist or musician, now is the time to throw yourself into that dream project you’ve been putting off.

4. Build a Community

It’s important to maintain contact with others during your recovery. You need a community of strong, positive supporters, which may include family, friends, or members of a treatment group.

Sometimes it’s easier to focus on helping others instead of yourself. That’s where volunteering comes in. Local food banks, libraries, and non-profit organizations usually have a strong need for volunteer support. Having a positive effect on others will help you achieve a good outlook on your own life.

Reach Out If You Need Help

We hope these tips will enable you to maintain a positive outlook on sobriety — but remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Some days will be harder than others, and it’s OK to ask for help. Yellowstone Recovery offers several programs for individuals and families, in addition to numerous treatment options. Contact us to learn more.