Addiction is something many people struggle with and it can be increasingly hard to cope with during times like these. By having to stay home and not being able to interact with the people you love, some addicts sink deeper into their vice. However, today’s article will take you through steps that you can take to be proactive and recover from your addiction while sheltering in place.
- Research Recovery Programs
I always recommend getting professional help when recovering from addiction. Unfortunately, coronavirus has shut down many therapists nationwide. The good news is that you can research certain recovery programs while you are at home. These programs are going to aid in your recovery once everything starts to open back up. In the end, every addict is going to need to take a different approach when recovering from their addiction, for every program isn’t a one size fits all solution.
- Keep Exercising
Exercise has been shown to improve health dramatically, especially in those struggling with addiction. Whether it is playing pickup basketball with your friends, hitting the gym, or going on a solo hike, these activities take your mind off of your addiction. The more you are engaged in these sorts of activities, the less you will think about your vice. Physiological speaking, exercising has been shown to boost endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are feel-good neurotransmitters that put someone in a positive, happy mood. As a matter of fact, they are also addictive. So, instead of having a destructive addiction, let endorphins and exercise construct a positive routine in your life.
- Keep your diet in check
As most of us know, health is wealth. As the ancient philosophers have stated, “let food be thy medicine”. Getting your diet right isn’t just important for your addiction but for your overall health in general. People who struggle with tobacco and other drugs also have a tendency to use alcohol and other horrible food choices which further their addictions. Some people even get addicted to things like sugar and caffeine, so making the conscious decision to not consume foods like these that further your addiction is critically important for your overall health. In the end, we all know the foods that we are supposed to be eating. Start consuming vegetables, fruits, and meats while limiting things like simple sugars, dairy, and others. You will not only feel better but it will also help your recovery, especially if your addiction is food-related.
- Meditate
Meditation is one of the best activities an addict can engage in. If your addiction spirals you into a state of everlasting anxiety and depression, mediation can really help with it. Mediation allows you to focus on the root cause of your addiction instead of focusing on the symptoms. The problem that most people have with addictions is the denial or fear that they cannot escape it. In the end, mediation will help you get in touch with your true self and your inner spirit. By creating neural networks through the practice of mediation, you will essentially rewire your brain to combat addiction.
- Put yourself first
Addiction is not only tough on those around you, but it is also super tough on your own self. Because of this, make it a priority to give yourself space while in quarantine. Focus on activities that are going to take your mind off of addiction. Whether this is constructing a puzzle, painting, or reading, distancing yourself from the root cause of your addiction is important.
All in all, it is important to know that recovery is a process, not a destination. You aren’t just going to wake up one day and be totally free from your addiction. However, you can start reinforcing positive habits into your life that will move you further away from your addiction. Focus on things you like to do and activities that are going to be constructive to your life.
