Now that you have completed the major step of breaking free from cocaine addiction, it is time to walk in freedom. Life might not return to normal immediately, but if you give yourself time and dedication, you might achieve it in due time. Despite the urges and persuasion of friends, you can emerge victorious and live a life free of addiction.
This article will give you some tips on how to recover fully and prevent falling back into the addiction. Some of these actions require dedication and a strong will, but the good news is that it is possible to stand. Whether you are a parent of a former addict or the one recovering, here are a few things to help you stand your ground.
Avoid Triggers
One of the easiest ways to fall back is hanging out in the places where you used to purchase and consume cocaine. Even with a strong will, the temptation to go back to your old ways can significantly multiply when you go to a conducive consumption environment. Whereas you may not entirely avoid your friends, staying away from the meeting places significantly reduces their manipulation. It is also wise to be bold and firmly hold onto your reasons for quitting cocaine.
Do not allow others to water down your reasons or be ashamed of telling others that you no longer use the drugs. Another trigger may be other highly addictive substances like alcohol and tobacco. So many people usually use these as alternatives to calm the urges but unknowingly spike up another addiction. Since these items are stimulants, you may provoke the former addictive trend and get a new obsession. It is best to avoid all legal and illegal substances that have a high likelihood of causing addiction.
Lifestyle Changes
A new way of life can help you focus on new things and avoid the old ways that led to the addiction trap. At the frontline of having a healthy lifestyle is avoiding stress. A significant percentage of addicts usually start taking drugs to relieve stress. Therefore, when faced with similar situations, their brain takes them back to the previous ways. Whereas life may not always be smooth, find new ways to handle your stressful situations, like talking to a counselor to help alleviate the pressure. Distractions are also an excellent way to keep your mind busy. Find new exciting things to do to avoid having an idle mind. Whereas the beginning might need some motivation, once you build consistency, you will enjoy doing the activities. The most important thing is to do something that will keep your mind engaged until the urges pass.
Some top suggestions include:
- Jogging
- Nature walks
- Yoga
- Boxing
- Gardening
- Swimming
- Reading
- Meditation
- Music
- painting
Get a Support System
As the wise men said, no man is an island. You need people to help you in this new season. You can implement a buddy system with people you meet at the recovery center. Recovery groups are also a good idea to help you gain motivation from those walking the same journey as you. These groups also help you to remain accountable and have a free space to share your challenges.
Apart from the people at rehab, always surround yourself with loving family and friends who can always give you a shoulder to lean on when things get tough. Their unconditional love and support will help you get through this season, and they can always celebrate your wins. However, opening up to reliable people who will not judge your progress or bring condemnation is essential. Keep away from all negative people who may draw you back or discourage you.
Conclusion
No matter how long you lived with cocaine addiction, it is possible to live free from it. From the moment you successfully complete your time in rehab and start your new journey, make it your purpose to live one day at a time. Celebrate every milestone and remember that every day counts. You should also not be ashamed of asking for help when you feel weak. Rely on others to assist you in walking this road confidently. Need help starting your sobriety walk? Contact us today at 614-705-0611 and receive specialized assistance for victorious living.