Supporting Your Journey Toward Recovery this Summer
With the summertime upon us—that means warmer weather, longer days, and more opportunities to build better habits. What better time than now to work toward a sober lifestyle? We’re here to share some tips that can help you along the way.
Know that You Don’t Have to Attend Every Social Event
The summer months mean plenty of parties, barbecues, and other social gatherings, especially in a post-pandemic world. Although they serve as an excellent opportunity to catch up with friends, family, and other loved ones you haven’t seen in a while—parties tend to be rampant with drug and alcohol consumption and abuse.
If you know that there is going to be drugs and alcohol at a particular gathering, you may want to skip out on that one to avoid the temptation to use. Another great idea is to appoint an accountability buddy who can check on you throughout the event.
Spend Time with Those Who Respect Your Sobriety
While relationships with friends and family members may be very important to you, it is important to know which ones are worth keeping and letting go of. As you continue on the path toward a sober lifestyle, it’s necessary to surround yourself with people who support your decision to cut out drugs and alcohol.
Unfortunately, some people may not be as receptive to this decision, and spending time with them can result in an unwanted relapse. Whether they peer pressure you or make you uncomfortable by using around you, you may want to spend less time with them.
Fill Up Your Free Time
Summertime typically means less time spent at work and school, allowing boredom to creep in. Unfortunately, too much idle time is the number one cause of drug and alcohol relapse. Whether it’s because you’re alone with your thoughts or you have nothing to do, people tend to turn to old habits.
Fortunately, there are plenty of fun sober activities you can try out during the summertime to keep your idle time to a minimum.
Head to the Pool or the Beach
With hotter weather here to stay, it provides the perfect opportunity to speak up some time and spend time by the water. Whether you prefer heading to the beach or going for a swim in the pool, spending time in the sun can help your brain release feel-good chemicals serotonin and dopamine.
Spend More Time in Nature
When you’re in recovery, spending time in nature can provide a variety of psychological and emotional health benefits, including:
- Strengthening your critical thinking skills
- Managing your stress levels
- Regulating mood
- Lowering your risk of mental health issues
- Improving your memory
From going for hikes to doing outdoor yoga or reading a book at the park, head into the great outdoors to give your mental health a boost.
Find a New Hobby or Skill
When you’re not spending time partying, drinking, or doing drugs, you’ll find that you have a lot more free time on your hands. Fortunately, that means you’ll finally have an opportunity to try out all the things you’ve always wanted to try.
Whether you want to commit to joining a club, learning an instrument, or even want to try a new sport—finding activities that you enjoy help to support your recovery. Not only does it help to build your confidence and self-esteem, but it also fosters feelings of responsibility.
Seeking Help at The Good Life Treatment Center
At The Good Life Treatment Center, we’re a different kind of treatment center—we believe in the treatment and recovery of the body, mind, and spirit. We’re committed to working with you to help remove the burdens of shame and guilt that addiction so often brings. We think there’s a better, freer way to live life.
To learn more about the treatments offered at The Good Life Treatment Center, call (561) 250-8552 or contact us online today!
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