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Sober Curious: What It Means, Benefits, and Tips for Living Sober

No one deserves the pain and heartbreak that addiction brings. You deserve better than a life ruled by drugs and alcohol, and you owe it to yourself to do everything you can to get better. Nothing keeps you in a haze quite like drugs and alcohol. If you want to be truly present in your life, sobriety is the answer. New Year’s inspires everyone to make positive lifestyle changes, which means people are more likely to be supportive of your decision around this time of the year.

  • “Stay away from events or places that are solely focused on alcohol, such as going to a bar and hanging out,” says Hafeez.
  • That self-control has to be a learned behavior for many drinkers looking to cut alcohol out of their lives.
  • When you choose to become sober, you might worry that your life is going to become boring.
  • Combine the calories in alcohol with the aforementioned junk food cravings and you’ve got a recipe for weight gain.

A person addicted to drugs and alcohol has only one thing on his or her mind. That’s because the chemicals within these substances change the brain’s structure, forcing it to focus on getting more drugs or alcohol. When you break free from this, you suddenly can experience life again. This includes everything from the way the sun feels on your skin to the sound of your child laughing. Addiction is an expensive lifestyle, as you constantly seek out the drugs or alcohol each time you have cash. When you are no longer funding your addiction and living a sober life, you have more money since it is not being spent on substance abuse.

Mental Health

Now that you’re sober, you can start working to develop real friendships with people who actually care about you and value you. Drugs and alcohol change the way your brain functions and may even cause long-term or irreversible brain damage. Fortunately, not all of the damage is permanent and as your body adjusts to sobriety, your brain will too. With time, the mental fog will fade and you’ll begin to feel more alert, focused, and present in your everyday life. This means you’ll have an easier time functioning at work, carrying out your daily routine, reading a book, and even just having deeper thoughts and ideas that add value to your life. Another reason why your energy is often lower while abusing substances than it is while sober is because addiction causes you to not get good sleep.

why sobriety is better

Our primary purpose is to foster long-term sobriety through the cultivation of accountability, camaraderie, & character development. At Ethos, we understand that there are many ways to achieve and maintain sobriety. The first step is to know that your questions and feelings are normal. The next step is to talk to someone about those feelings.

If you want to practice a sober lifestyle

Aside from the obvious reasons that come with breaking bad habits to live a better life, the benefits of sobriety include improved overall health–both mental and physical. When you abuse substances for extended periods of time, it exaggerates any mental health issues that you have. This is especially true since you’re likely not taking care of your physical or mental health as it is while suffering from addiction. However, living a sober life will help improve your physical, and in particular, your mental health.

What happens if you’re never sober?

You may lose your job. You behave in ways that you never would have if you hadn't been under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and you may end up getting arrested or having other legal problems. If you continue to drink or drug, you may develop major health problems, some of which are irreversible.

This is because alcohol and other drugs dilate the small veins in the eyes, causing them to leak. Alcohol and drugs also cause the blood vessels in your eyes to expand, making them more prominent. Yellowing of the whites is a side effect of a compromised liver resulting from 5 Tips to Consider When Choosing a Sober Living House long-term substance use. Puffiness, bags, and dark circles around the eyes are caused by lack of sleep, bad circulation, water retention, and overall poor health. When you’re under the influence, you’re likely to have bloodshot eyes from the low-quality sleep you’re getting.

Short Term vs. Long Term Sobriety

You feel more connected to yourself, your spirituality and life in general becomes something you look forward to each day. As you can see, all of the health benefits of sobriety go hand-in-hand. When you are not putting unnecessary toxins in your body and you are sleeping better, you’re naturally going to have increased energy levels. Drugs and alcohol are depressants, so in their absence, you’ll find that you can get more done without tiring.

You also reduce the health risks and give your body a chance to heal. Between messing up your sleep and taking a toll on your body, alcohol and drugs can make you feel pretty bad if you use them regularly. Cutting out these substances can make you instantly feel years younger. You won’t have to nurse any more hangovers or take afternoon naps to get through the day.

A New Lease on Life

Happily married, she is the loving mother of 6 beautiful children. Through proper treatment with the 12 Steps, you can “reduce to a quiet condition” the feelings you are resistant to and be comfortable with being honest with yourself. When these feelings arise in the alcoholic who has stopped using alcohol to cope with these emotions, the reaction can be extreme. They also have a problem with their mind, which works to avoid and be resistant to feelings of anger, fear, shame, loneliness, and guilt. Our alcohol-free wines are also a great base for your new favorite mocktails, from white wine spritzers to virgin sangrias. Learn more about the difference a glass of Surely wine can make as part of your sober curious journey.

why sobriety is better

8 Benefits of a Sober Living Program for Women Sober Living CO

As you progress in your sobriety, your overall health will begin to improve.Your immune system will heal, causing you to get sick less often. Your weight will begin to stabilize, and your diet will be better as you crave fewer unhealthy foods. This can cause addicts to be less self-aware, making it easier to keep using. The world around you also comes into focus as you are more mindful of the things going on around you and how they are impacting your life. Consistent drug and alcohol abuse take a toll on your appearance, wreaking havoc on your skin, weight, teeth, eyes, hair, and more.

why sobriety is better

At this point, your emotions may be all over the place. Drinking may calm you down, but the truth is that its effects don’t last forever, and you are still losing the ability https://www.excel-medical.com/5-tips-to-consider-when-choosing-a-sober-living-house/ to experience and regulate emotions properly. If you’re a heavy drinker, it’s important that you stop drinking under the care of your doctor or an addiction specialist.

Developing Healthier Alternatives to Old Habits

As a result, you develop a better understanding of the world around you, how it impacts you personally, and what actions you can take to stay sober for the long-haul. There are a lot of things that happen naturally when you quit drinking alcohol. You feel better (at least you SHOULD) because you’re not hungover and laying at death’s door every other morning. Getting sober isn’t boring, it requires thought and dedication instead of impulsive autopilot behavior. Don’t let your brain fool you into thinking you can’t become sober or that it’s not worth your time. When you’re sober, you’ll find you suddenly have a surplus in your bank account.

why sobriety is better

It can also help you to forgive yourself for past mistakes and begin a journey of self-love. To acknowledge milestones on a sobriety journey, some people in addiction recovery begin self-care routines for the first time in their lives. A life of addiction can mean paying for drugs or alcohol instead of important expenses, such as house repairs or healthcare.

Because here’s what sobriety alone cannot fix for you:

The only way to get you out of this rut of not taking care of yourself is sobriety. A life in recovery gives you the unique opportunity to develop healthy coping mechanisms. These mechanisms will pave the way for overcoming hardship without relying on a substance.

Your heart, mood, and waistline will benefit from increased exercise or physical activity. Some in addiction recovery find it helpful to engage in meditation to quiet the mind, help with cravings, and remind themselves to live in the present moment. When you’re addicted to drugs or alcohol, you sometimes don’t realize all the areas of your life that are negatively affected. Depending on how long you’ve struggled with a substance use disorder, you may have grown accustomed to unfulfilling aspects of your life. You may never make the connection to addiction until after getting sober.

Full Plate- The Rebuild Week 6- Managing my workload and the mental challenges that come with it.

This is because when you suffer from addiction, you become consumed with getting more alcohol or drugs and that alone. But, when you become sober, you get to have all the time that you would have normally used to obtain substances while suffering from addiction. With all this newfound time, you can change your life for the better. One of the many benefits of sobriety is that you’ll get a fresh start on repairing these broken relationships.

  • The year 2020 is a great new opportunity to continue growing and learning in sobriety.
  • Although during a period of initial detox or withdrawal symptoms, this may not be the case at first, sobriety takes time; know that better days are ahead.
  • It has become a way for people to learn how to stop harmful patterns when they drink and identify triggers for those behaviors.
  • Does it keep you from being there for someone you love?
  • You can travel to different places, try new things, and just be present in your life – and that’s always more fulfilling than checking out with a drink.

For example, chronic abuse of substances can cause you to either lose or gain an unhealthily large amount of weight. Therefore, when you become sober, your weight will likely stabilize itself. When you go sober, you’ll be able to complete daily tasks with improved efficiency. Your focus and attention span will improve, allowing you to do more. You’ll also have better decision-making skills for problem-solving and time management. When you don’t put anything unhealthy into your body, you won’t be so vulnerable to colds and stomach bugs.

Improved Mental Health

When sober, you’re no longer hazy about the details of your life. Your focus is no longer solely on getting your next fix. It’s much easier to figure out where your priorities lie and what to focus on. It’s like being able to see the bright blue sky after a foggy day.

What are the benefits of sobriety 3 months?

Although positive changes may appear earlier, 3 months of not drinking can not only improve your mood, energy, sleep, weight, skin health, immune health, and heart health. It can even reduce your risk of cancer.

Because of how vital sleep is, one of the key benefits of sobriety is that you get to sleep again. When living a sober life after addiction, your overall health improves immensely. This is because you’re no longer attacking your body by putting dangerous amounts of toxic substances in it.

You’re less stressed and anxious.

Also, alcohol depletes nutrition and electrolytes and steals good hydration from the body. Broken blood vessels, rosacea, red spots, wrinkles, puffiness, and dryness, are only a few of the maladies substance use can cause. One of the things that are universal to addiction is lank hair.

Blood Thinners and Alcohol: The Risks of Combining These Drugs

Dr. Harb Harb is a non-invasive cardiologist working within the Northwell Health System in New York, specifically at the North Shore University Hospital, affiliated with Hofstra University. Dr. Harb moved to New York City, choosing a career path in academic medicine as an assistant professor at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. There, he teaches and works with cardiovascular and medical trainees as well as medical students. He is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology (FACC) and American board-certified in general cardiology, echocardiography, and stress-testing, and nuclear cardiology. Lastly, he obtained graduate education in public health and business administration to contribute to national healthcare reform research and implementation. As females retain more alcohol in the bloodstream than males, they are at higher risk of developing problems from combining alcohol with medications.

It is best not to combine these substances at all unless you have first spoken with your doctor. Mixing alcohol and aspirin increases the toxicity of aspirin and can increase the risk of internal bleeding. If you are taking aspirin, you should speak with your doctor before using alcohol.

Can you drink on Naproxen?

Generally, light-to-moderate drinking is considered safe for most people on most types of blood thinners. But because everyone is different, your doctor can advise based on your condition and other medications you may be taking. For example, if you are drinking alcohol, make sure your doctor knows. Tell them about any medications you are taking and if there are any symptoms that you have experienced that may be related to those medications or your condition.

For people who already have blood clots, they help prevent them from growing larger and help them to be absorbed faster. When you have a blood clot, it can lead to strokes, heart attacks, impaired circulation in the https://ecosoberhouse.com/ lungs, and other complications resulting from the blockage. Beyond your blood platelets, abusing alcohol can significantly harm your health, including liver damage, high blood pressure, nerve damage and depression.

Get Quality Medical Information And Help With An Alcohol Addiction Now

The actual risks to a particular individual are very case-specific and should be discussed with a doctor. Traumatic injuries are one of the most common causes of bleeding, but sometimes you can bleed spontaneously. There are a number of factors that determine how dangerous alcohol consumption is while taking blood thinners. Alcohol can also affect the action of platelets, which are the components of the blood that form clots. A 2016 review suggests that significant daily alcohol consumption increases the activity of platelets.

  • However, drinking while taking blood thinners can potentially make these side effects worse.
  • Alcohol may interact differently with some blood thinners depending on how they affect the body, so it is important to discuss your specific situation with your doctor.
  • If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your physician or dial 911.

Blood thinners can be used to treat or prevent conditions that involve the formation of blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. Always consult your physician before drinking alcohol if you are currently taking blood thinners.

What if I can’t stop drinking alcohol?

In her spare time she loves learning about health, nutrition, meditation, spiritual practices, and enjoys being a mother to two beautiful children. [3] Coagulation is when a part of your blood called platelets form clots. Because little alcohol can prevent coagulation, alcohol is considered a blood thinner. However, even medications that don’t require a prescription can be unsafe when mixed with alcohol. For example, OTC painkillers (including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can cause a range of symptoms from gastrointestinal upset to bleeding and ulcers in the stomach to tachycardia (racing heart). Over time, one of the serious risks of alcohol use and especially alcohol misuse is that the drug can actually cause cell death and shrink your brain.

wine and blood thinners

The following list of medications that shouldn’t be mixed with alcohol isn’t exhaustive. You should always read the label of any medication and check with a doctor to be sure you are safely taking a medication. blood thinners and alcohol Harmful physical effects such as seizures may occur in some cases. The longer a person misuses stimulants and alcohol together, the higher the risk becomes of developing substance use disorders.

Living Sober: The Top 12 Benefits

Maybe you used to abuse drugs and alcohol because you didn’t like yourself and you were trying to be someone else. Or maybe you hated yourself because you couldn’t stop abusing substances. Either way, as you continue living a sober life, you may learn how to love yourself (flaws and all), respect yourself, and feel confident and good about the new decisions you’re making. People often abuse drugs and alcohol to cope with difficult life circumstances or to mask feelings of anxiety or stress. However, this can be a double-edged sword because substance abuse can also cause these issues.

  • For example, chronic abuse of substances can cause you to either lose or gain an unhealthily large amount of weight.
  • In short, sobriety has countless benefits and you are never too late to become sober and experience them.
  • Life after addiction might also mean you have more professional success and new creative outlets that you discover when drugs and alcohol aren’t occupying all of your time.

We want to always be moving forwards, but there is no point in moving forward if we don’t stop to reflect on how far we’ve come. It helps to motivate us to keep going and can help us feel a bit better about ourselves. Conversely, sober living has a positive domino effect on your life. An alcohol-free life can lead to better sleep, higher self-esteem, and better overall health and wellness. All of these factors contribute to better mental health.

Clean Living: The Journey to Recovery

Sober living for women offers the chance to recapture what you used to love about life, setting some goals, and working on achieving them. First of all, you can 5 Tips to Consider When Choosing a Sober Living House get those same antioxidants from chowing down on a handful of red grapes. More importantly, drinking in moderation just doesn’t come naturally for everyone.

Can sobriety be lonely?

The vast majority of them are improvements, but many people in recovery experience one negative change: loneliness. Loneliness in sobriety is common–and a risk factor for relapse.

What areas of your daily life have become unmanageable and chaotic? How has your financial situation been damaged by addiction? In addiction recovery, you will be empowered to achieve your true potential with clarity and purpose.

Mental Clarity

When you stop polluting your body with toxins from drugs and alcohol, your body begins to detox and cleanse itself. You are no longer putting those chemicals in your body and this allows your internal systems to reset, offering our bodies the chance to work more efficiently and with less strain. This creates an environment in our body that is much closer to what it was intended to be and you will start to notice that you begin to function at a much more optimal level. The grips of drug and alcohol addiction can deny you from appreciating and seeing your self-worth. When you remove substances from the equation, you will rediscover the person you truly are — a person worthy of love, respect, and limitless potential.

why sobriety is better

Reach out to our experienced staff when you are ready to make a change in your life. However, with the help of our team, you can begin to rebuild your life. Contact Midwest Detox Center by filling out the secure form below. I’ve spent the last six years researching and understanding alcoholism, addiction, and how people get sober. It has to do with alcohol’s effect on your brain chemistry and what happens to your mood and emotional well-being as your brain heals from years of drinking.

The Ongoing Process of Sober Living

Drinking alcohol can be fine in moderation for some people, but alcohol misuse or alcohol use disorder can lead to health issues and personal and professional problems. People in recovery have a more radiant complexion than before. Their skin becomes clearer — and, in many cases, cleaner due to improved hygiene. Within the first six months of sobriety, most people undergo observable and positive changes in their skin. Sobriety is your body at its most natural state, so when you’re sober, your body goes back into a more regular rhythm.

Will I look better if I don’t drink?

Your skin will look better

Drinking less alcohol can have a positive impact on your appearance – and your skin in particular. Alcohol dehydrates your body, including the skin, and this happens every time you drink. This can cause your skin and eyes to look dull. But stopping drinking could help your skin's hydration.

If you’re in recovery, you’re actively taking the steps to address a drinking problem. Everyone’s path along recovery is different, and what works for some may not work for others. If anyone is struggling in any way, make someone aware of it.

In short, sobriety has countless benefits and you are never too late to become sober and experience them. Substance abuse can have a significant impact on your body’s natural sleeping patterns, making it difficult to get the recommended amount of sleep each night. Additionally, getting enough restful sleep helps to support the individual’s sobriety journey by promoting greater physical and mental well-being.

  • If they don’t have any healthier alternatives to make up for the loss, they may find themselves in a vicious cycle of self-destructive behavior.
  • It may be difficult to imagine yourself being a source of inspiration right now, but you can become someone others look up to.
  • On the other hand, alcohol withdrawal symptoms can quickly become deadly if delirium tremens kick in.
  • But I also realised that there were already sober people in my life whom I had previously ignored.
  • Plus, assuming you’ve eliminated all your triggers, there’s a good chance your schedule has freed up tremendously, so you have time to explore or start new projects.

When you begin to reach out to people, you may be pleasantly surprised at how much compassion your friends and family have for you. We all need each other, and this part of being sober will allow you to see how loved and supported you truly are. After getting sober, many people are amazed when they look back at how a substance use disorder impacted their financial situation.

Reasons Being Sober Makes Your Life Better

And usually some counseling/therapy/group sessions, etc. For those of us with more challenging mental health issues, maybe it includes a treatment plan to help you cut through the fog. Surprise, surprise, but more restorative sleep leads to more energy.

why sobriety is better

Benefits of Being Sober Alcohol Addiction Treatment

Without the weight of addiction on your shoulders, you can begin to focus or refocus on personal and professional goals — instead of drugs and alcohol. Also, overindulging in alcohol can play a role in premature climax for men, and women can have a more difficult time achieving orgasm if overly intoxicated. If you need the motivation to cut back on drinking or stop altogether, consider your sex life. Being sober can increase libido and could aid in bringing your sexual experiences to the next level.

  • Addiction brings with it a ton of stress — stress about finances, employment, the worsening of the addiction, losing friends, etc.
  • At Riviera Recovery in Los Angeles, we understand how intimidating the idea of getting treatment for addiction can be.
  • You will also be able to create a life that is not just healthy, but mentally, psychologically, and physically positive.

You will shape a life that is worth living— a life that is mentally, psychologically, and physically positive. On top of restoring relationships with old friends and family, sobriety will also provide you plenty of opportunities to make new friends. People who have embraced sober life often report healthier relationships with family members, friends, and loved ones.

Sobriety will introduce you to yourself.

All you have to do is get out there and go find some fun sober activities. If your life revolves around your next high or your next drink, then your friends most likely do too. Now that you’re https://www.healthworkscollective.com/how-choose-sober-house-tips-to-focus-on/ sober, you can start working to develop real friendships with people who actually care about you and value you. Well, these benefits of sobriety also mean you have time to be more productive.

By embracing sobriety, individuals in recovery can enjoy the many advantages to a life with increased clarity and purpose. Despite popular misconceptions, it is important to note that sober living does not have to be a punishment. Instead, it is an opportunity to unlock greater potential and live a more fulfilling life. Some people Top 5 Tips to Consider When Choosing a Sober House for Living in recovery consider getting over addiction as their first step to living a much healthier lifestyle. Post-treatment, you may develop a consistent exercise routine to get your mind off drinking. They’re both excellent ways to improve your health and also things you can focus on to fill in the gaps left by addiction in your life.

(Re)discovering Your Personality

Alcohol is a depressant, which makes you feel tired and slow. Without the constant effect of alcohol on your body, you have a lot more energy to work with. Exercise increases endorphins, which are the “feel-good” chemicals in the brain. It can be a good replacement for the release of endorphins caused by drinking alcohol. New Year’s inspires everyone to make positive lifestyle changes, which means people are more likely to be supportive of your decision around this time of the year.

  • Their skin becomes clearer — and, in many cases, cleaner due to improved hygiene.
  • You’ve mulled it over so much that it FEELS like you really DID attend a class and had the worst experience of your life.
  • As addictions spiral out of control, addicts have less control over their lives.
  • Between messing up your sleep and taking a toll on your body, alcohol and drugs can make you feel pretty bad if you use them regularly.

8 Benefits of a Sober Living Program for Women Sober Living CO

You will find yourself having less mood swings along with increased happiness. Perhaps one of the best things about a sober life is the relationship you begin to develop with yourself. You learn new skills, interests, and learn just how much you can overcome when you put your mind to it. This is one of the most beautiful things a sober life can offer you. Be selective about who you spend time with during this transition.

What are the cons of sobriety?

  • Difficulty socially. This was something I definitely experienced to begin with.
  • Missing out. When I was no longer relying on alcohol to have fun, I did at times feel a little left out.
  • Pressure from others. When I first gave up alcohol, I definitely felt the pressure to drink.
  • Getting asked why?

Getting sober means shifting habits, including financial accountability. Substance abuse can be a serious drain on your bank account. When the sun comes up, and the effects from substance abuse wear off, no one can deny that a hangover makes you feel less than optimal. The morning after a night of binge drinking or other substance abuse can cause dehydration in the body, withdrawal symptoms, and leave you in a haze. Alcohol affects how your body cycles through the four stages of sleep.

I love living where I live

Alcohol abuse is disruptive to sleeping patterns because it suppresses sleep, not permitting a restorative, good nights rest. Though you may have trouble falling asleep when you first get sober, you will soon sleep peacefully through the night and feel more rested the next day. Exercise increases endorphins, which are the “feel-good” chemicals in the brain.

  • They believe it’s something they choose to do, and whatever happens, they will have to deal with the consequences.
  • There’s a strong connection between substance use disorders and sleep disorders.
  • It reminded me that I was aimless, which made me want to drink more.
  • There is something about friendships in recovery that is magical.

Without the influence of drugs and alcohol, the impacts of depression, anxiety and stress lighten, freeing you to appreciate all that you have. Check out our Recovery Stories from alumni to read how sobriety has affected their lives. The amazing journey of recovery from drugs and alcohol is that it provides the perfect roadmap to building a better life.

Enjoy the Benefits of Sobriety with Help From Silver Linings!

As a result, you’ve likely broken and lost relationships that you’ve had in the past with family members and friends while suffering from addiction. Continuous substance abuse can even do things like cause your blood pressure to spike or decrease to an unhealthy range. When your blood pressure becomes too high or too low, it can cause your body to go into shock.

What are the benefits of being alcohol free?

  • Weight loss.
  • Improved memory function.
  • Deeper sleep.
  • Balanced moods.
  • Improved heart health.
  • Enhanced liver function.
  • Boosting your immune system.
  • Is an alcohol-free lifestyle right for you?

Being comfortable with who you are in your own skin is a key to happiness and contentment. Not only are drugs and alcohol not cheap but being under their influence leads to poor financial decisions. By abstaining from them, you will save money, make more sound financial decisions, and be able to succeed at work, which could lead to a raise.

Mental Clarity

But after the above-mentioned conversation and a couple of others, I realised I have gone through definitive stages of sobriety. While life without substances isn’t stress-free, you won’t have the added stress of a SUD on top of everything else. Sobriety does decrease the likelihood of sober house a co-occurring disorder arising. It’s beneficial to keep in mind whether there’s a history of mental illness in your family. This might motivate you away from addictive behaviors as a helpful preventative measure against both addiction and the potential for developing a mental illness.

The benefits of being sober include real relationships and experiences that you might otherwise miss out on, along with many other good reasons to be sober. One big reason people feel so afraid of sobriety is because of what they see in the media, pop culture and even from people they know on social media. There’s the sense that if you’re not using drugs or alcohol, somehow life is boring or uninteresting. There’s the misconception that if you’re sober, you aren’t fun, you won’t be able to enjoy your life to the fullest and you’ll have trouble forming relationships. It’s not easy to admit when we make mistakes, but it’s essential for our mental health and overall well-being.

Financial Stability.

The road to recovery involves reaching out to those you’ve hurt and made amends. In most cases, this means that the addiction only worsens. If you’re struggling with a substance use disorder, it’s never too late to ask for help from our alumni group.

why sobriety is better

If anyone is struggling in any way, make someone aware of it. Speak to a friend, family, loved one, stranger, postman, uber eats driver, or me; talk to someone. Toward the end of the holidays, I reached out to my mate Paul to ask about breathwork. Because it was the slightest bit hard and required even the smallest amount of patience, I threw tantrums before declaring I just couldn’t do it.

Contact Women’s Recovery to Learn More About Sober Living for Women

Now that you’re sober, you can start working to develop real friendships with people who actually care about you and value you. However, some of us may find ourselves feeling down, lamenting past years and previous versions of ourselves. Maybe you’re newly sober and the pink cloud never showed up for you or you’re struggling to adjust to a sober lifestyle. Many people have a hard time making the transition after rehab, but all hope is not lost. You CAN do this and you WILL eventually settle into a sober life.

5 Powerful Mental Health Benefits of Sobriety

In sobriety, you will lead a healthier, more fulfilling life. When someone is struggling with substance abuse, their friends most likely also use or drink with them or introduce them to the substance they are now abusing in the first place. Many of these old friends https://goodmenproject.com/everyday-life-2/top-5-tips-to-consider-when-choosing-a-sober-house-for-living/ are often waiting to welcome you back into their lives, wanting to see you heal and progress into a happy, healthy, and sober life. People often abuse drugs and alcohol to cope with difficult life circumstances or to mask feelings of anxiety or stress.

  • It is a well-known fact that addiction to either alcohol or drugs can rapidly cause a person’s personal hygiene to deteriorate.
  • “Stay away from events or places that are solely focused on alcohol, such as going to a bar and hanging out,” says Hafeez.
  • But if you’re sober curious, you can remind yourself that there are many ways to socialize that don’t involve drinking, like seeing a movie or playing a sport.

One of the first noticeable changes in most people is their skin. Some times we don’t realize that what we put into our bodies really plays a role in our physical appearance. Within the first 6 months sobriety, most people undergo visible and positive changes in their skin, face and eyes that others take notice of. Instead of staying out drinking and partying until the early morning hours, we give ourselves a chance to rest and get quality sleep. Not only that but the peace of mind being sober offers makes for a very soft pillow.

Am I an Alcoholic? Key Warning Signs of Alcoholism

Even if you don’t tend to black out under the influence, alcohol and drugs can make your memory foggy and unreliable. When you’re sober, you’ll feel sharper and more alert, and you’ll remember things better. When you’re sleep-deprived, you feel cranky, foggy, and unhealthy. Alcohol and drugs aren’t conducive to good sleep – they can keep you up late at night, make it hard to fall asleep when you want to, or make you sleepy during the daytime. When you’re sober, you’re able to stick to a healthy sleep schedule and wake up feeling refreshed every day. If you’re struggling with a substance use disorder, it’s never too late to ask for help from our alumni group.

I’m embarrassed to admit this, but in the past, I based my interests largely on whether or not it would put me in the path of “cool” people and/or love interests. There are plenty of people who slowly trudge through the remainder of their lives fueled by cigarettes, sugar, and grievance. Eventually (though there are times it sober house doesn’t feel like it), your neurochemistry readjusts. When you drink a lot, your concept of fun is often limited to what’s on tap. Recovery allows you to get to know the real you and learn to love that person. You can take in every second, and not feel like your life is passing you by in a whirlwind of blurred memories.

Financial Stability

For example, you can eat healthier because you have the energy to cook dishes instead of ordering fast food. If you want to explore your relationship with alcohol, it can be helpful to cut it out and note any changes in your life caused by its elimination. New hobbies may be most effective when you haven’t tried them before but have been interested in trying them and think they will feel enjoyable or meaningful.

why sobriety is better

Benefits of Being Sober Alcohol Addiction Treatment

Being in control of your life helps you maintain your many responsibilities. Keeping track of obligations, preserving your composure in difficult situations, and finding the answers to problems are all necessary skills for a modern woman. When you’re not sober, that control starts to slip away. Surely non-alcoholic wines taste just like the real thing because they start out just like the real thing. The alcohol is just removed at the end, keeping you buzz-free and well on your way to a healthier lifestyle. Movements like Sober September serve as a reset or cleanse after periods of heavy drinking.

Once sober, they stop self-medicating, uncover the root causes of their addiction, and get the help they need. Addiction recovery can bring new-found peace to people who have stopped their substance abuse. For some, getting sober is about being honest with themselves and others around them for the first time in a long time. When someone is addicted to drugs or alcohol, they can get fixated on getting a high or taking the edge off with their substance of choice. They can experience withdrawal or get easily agitated until, for example, they’ve got a drink in hand. People often find that with sober living, they have better patience with others — and themselves.

Your Looks Improve Significantly

And, you can feel more confident about the decisions you make. Addiction is painful.The cravings and the body aches can be powerful reasons to keep using – after all, it seems to take those pains away. However, when you are sober, and you’ve gone through detox, you’ll feel even less pain. More so, once you work through detox, the pain doesn’t come back. That’s a big reason to get and stay sober for many men and women.

Speak to a friend, family, loved one, stranger, postman, uber eats driver, or me; talk to someone. To stay true to what I mentioned above, I started off on “easy”. I was really worried that five minutes would feel like five hours. That I would sit there and just wish it were over already. Paul was great, he explained to me that there was no real right or wrong way to do it. That’s kind of a mindset I’ve adopted towards most things over the last nine months.

Benefits of being sober curious

It’s an ongoing journey of growth and self-improvement, resulting in a healthier, more fulfilling life. Much of what I have described about drug and alcohol use is not rocket science, but it is health science. Unfortunately, when actively using, we tend to forget the simple rules of good health and beauty. It is beautiful when someone has quit drinking or using, and their hair has grown back, their eyes are bright, their skin is glowing, and they feel good. Sobriety makes you healthier and more attractive inside and out – naturally.

If you or a family member needs help getting sober, then call our admissions staff for more information. Alcoholics and addicts have a difficult time being honest with themselves. If you grew up in an alcoholic household, then you know that when mom or dad did not have something to drink they were not happy. Substance use disorder (SUD) takes its toll in many ways, and it is beautiful to see the restoration in recovery. Even after a week of consistent nutrition, joyful movement, evidence-based practices, safety, and abstinence, miracles happen.

You’re more productive.

When you’re sober, you’re able to stick to a healthy sleep schedule and wake up feeling refreshed every day. Addiction and mental health issues often come hand-in-hand. For example, those with depression often have lower levels of endorphins. Drugs help artificially boost endorphin levels for a short period, so addicts feel happy and calm. However, once the chemical levels of these hormones drop again, users feel depressed again.

A women’s sober living program offers support and accountability to help you regain your independence and move forward with your life of sobriety. Alcohol (and drugs) can sober house take away so much—relationships, professional opportunities, money, and time. A sober living program for women helps ensure that treatment and recovery are effective.

10 Things Youll Actually Love About Being Sober RCA

It can also help you to forgive yourself for past mistakes and begin a journey of self-love. To acknowledge milestones on a sobriety journey, some people in addiction recovery begin self-care routines for the first time in their lives. A life of addiction can mean paying for drugs or alcohol instead of important expenses, such as house repairs or healthcare. Those in addiction recovery often talk about taking more pride in things they’ve worked hard for, such as a house, car, or savings account. Substance abuse can be a serious drain on your bank account.

  • We hear a lot about practicing mindfulness, not just in the recovery community but in mental health in general.
  • Chronically abusing substances has many more negative effects on human health.
  • Hangover symptoms including nausea, vomiting, headaches and brain fog can last for days in some cases and can diminish your quality of day-to-day life.
  • For true addicts, it’s not simply drinking alcohol, it’s how often they spend thinking about it.

These official guidelines come from the non-profit Moderation Management. It has become a way for people to learn how to stop harmful patterns when they drink and identify triggers for those behaviors. https://www.healthworkscollective.com/how-choose-sober-house-tips-to-focus-on/ Drinking in moderation does come with some benefits, especially if you’re reaching for resveratrol-rich red wine, but it will always be a better option to drink less or not at all.

Stages of Alcoholism

The CDC suggests a maximum of 2 drinks per day for men and only one drink per day for women. For those on Moderation Management plans, that means no more than 4 drinks in one sitting for men and 3 drinks in one sitting for women. According to this plan, men and women shouldn’t drink more than 3-4 days per week.

  • As you progress in your sobriety, your overall health will begin to improve.Your immune system will heal, causing you to get sick less often.
  • A vital component of a successful sobriety lifestyle is developing healthy relationships with people in your life.
  • Sobriety can mean having the time to do things you love and enjoy.
  • The sober lifestyle helps you to start really understanding who you are and what makes you tick.
  • Substance abuse only reinforces and deepens these thoughts, chipping away at your self-esteem while strengthening its grip on you.

An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) may be available through your employer. When you get sober, a new world of possibilities, hope and happiness will open around you. You receive the needed tools like practicing gratitude to make your own happiness in recovery. Without the influence of drugs and alcohol, the impacts of depression, anxiety and stress lighten, freeing you to appreciate all that you have. Check out our Recovery Stories from alumni to read how sobriety has affected their lives.

More Energy

Getting and staying sober can change the way you look at yourself. You won’t have to think about yourself as a person with no self-control or someone who says stupid things when drunk. You’ll also build your self-esteem by sticking with your decision to stay sober.

This can lead to a more positive outlook on life and an increased sense of self-esteem and confidence. There’s a strong connection between substance use disorders and sleep disorders. According to studies, you’re likely to suffer from insomnia How to Choose a Sober House: Tips to Focus on and other sleep disorders when you abuse substances. You may also self-medicate your sleep issues using drugs or alcohol. In addition to preventing health problems, getting sober can help individuals recover from existing health conditions.

14 Reasons Being Sober Makes Your Life Better

Without the influence of drugs and alcohol, the impacts of depression, anxiety and stress lighten, freeing you to appreciate all that you have. Check out our Recovery Stories from alumni to read how sobriety has affected their lives. Sobriety can mean having the time to do things you love and enjoy. However, acclimating to a life of sobriety doesn’t happen instantly.

Sober living is a continuous process that demands commitment and persistence. It’s an emotional journey marked by constant learning, growing, https://www.excel-medical.com/5-tips-to-consider-when-choosing-a-sober-living-house/ and adapting. This journey doesn’t end once substances are removed from one’s life; instead, that’s when the process of sober living begins.

#1 Benefit of Living a Sober Life: Your Overall Health Will Improve

Your family members may find it difficult to rely on you and may feel that they can no longer trust you. However, once you give up drinking or drugs, your life will change for the better in a multitude of ways. Whether you’re an addict or you are simply looking to improve your health, here are 14 reasons sobriety makes your life healthier, more fulfilling, and more fun. Sober relationships will be a key factor in your recovery journey. They will show you that you do not need to drink to socialize and you do not need to be intoxicated to have fun.

why sobriety is better

In hindsight, maybe I could’ve gone back sooner, but there is literally no point in giving that thought any energy because I can’t change it and I’m doing just fine. But after the above-mentioned conversation and a couple of others, I realised I have gone through definitive stages of sobriety. Sober life can have a major positive impact on your relationship with your partner. For example, addiction can ruin an otherwise great marriage or be a deal-breaker for the greatest relationship you’ve ever known. Many report a robust, satisfying sex life among the most excellent benefits of sobriety.

Not Addicted Enough- The Rebuild Week 12- How my fear of other people’s opinions prevented me from getting sober sooner.

Your body is telling you that you’re poisoning it, and it’s had enough. When breaking the cycle of addiction, you’ll slowly begin to see the positive benefits of sobriety on your appearance. You lose the bloating in your face and body, and your bloodshot eyes become pearly white. The longer you stay sober, the more your body will heal itself.

Finally, accept that some relationships are irreparable. If the other party is not receptive to rebuilding what was once there, you must honor and respect that. Alcoholics Anonymous is free and available all over the country. Despite its dreary church hall image, I found the atmosphere in most meetings to be surprisingly convivial and often hilariously funny. But if you don’t fancy AA there are alternatives such as Smart Recovery and various group resources offered by the NHS.