Anyone who has made it to the recovery stage of a drug or alcohol addiction has a lot to be proud of. Having recognized their dependency and taken the time and dedication to become clean, the last thing anyone wants is for that person to experience a relapse.

During recovery, it is important that an individual has a strong support system, as well as the ability to recognize triggers and temptations. Something as simple as a certain place or emotion can cause individuals to crave their old habits, and the strength to reject these cravings is critical to an addiction-free life.

To help recovering addicts, there are some specific factors to avoid, which are more likely to sway an individual to use again. To fight addiction, the following are things to avoid during addiction recovery.

Substance-Abusing Friends

It might be hard, and not all of your friends will understand this part of your recovery; however, avoiding your substance-abusing friends might be one of the most important components of addiction recovery.

Unless you were the only person who was using alcohol or drugs before, it is likely that at least some of your friends will maintain their previous habits when you’re around. Being exposed to these temptations, as well as environments that used to encourage your substance use open up huge potential for using again.

If your friends aren’t able to support your current needs, especially during your early stages, then that will be one of the things to avoid during addiction recovery.

High Expectations

Embracing a sober life has the potential to be one of the most amazing, healthy and fulfilling things you ever do for yourself. However, it is important to know that all of the other components of life will still happen regardless of your sobriety.

Things like jobs, relationships and other aspects still require hard work and dedication, and not every single day will be bliss. Having high expectations from sobriety is a quick way to become disappointed, and perhaps relapse.

Avoid high expectations, and instead begin planning all of the other changes you want to make, to ensure that every facet of your life makes you happy.

New Relationships

With your newfound free time, you may think that filling it with a new romantic relationship is a good idea. Unfortunately, these kinds of connections can bring a lot of intense emotions, and it can be hard to provide the support and focus a partner needs when you’re still trying to improve on yourself.

Put some time into yourself for a while and become confident in your new lifestyle before trying to incorporate another huge component.

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Taking on Too Much

During recovery, you may feel invincible with your newfound independence; however, take these emotions with a grain of salt. Even if you don’t feel like you need more time, relapses can sneak up at any moment.

Being too busy and taking on too much in the early stages can cause a lot of overwhelming emotions, leading you to feel excess responsibility and pressure. Get on track with your present lifestyle first, and then slowly begin to incorporate new things.

Conclusion

Even if you feel like you’re a totally new person with your sobriety, remember that drug addiction recovery is a long road. The hard work lies in the journey ahead, and some broken bonds may have to be mended in the process.

If you are committed to staying clean and making a fresh start, then stick to that mindset every single day. Remember the things to avoid during addiction recovery, and stay consistent to show both yourself and others that you are serious about these changes. Call Inspire Change Addiction Rehab in Vancouver for addiction treatment programs.