January 3, 2020Tyler Collins
It’s time once again for people to look up New Year resolution ideas, good New Year resolutions, New Year resolution memes, quotes about new year resolutions, and funny new year resolutions.
Whether people are actually serious to change something about themselves or they just want to check out what others are trying to promise themselves, New Year’s resolutions will definitely remain as a mainstay during the holiday season.
In this article, we’re going to round up the most common New Year’s Resolutions people struggling with substance abuse make every single year. While they may seem like very simple resolutions, they are actually some of the most difficult to fulfill.
I will stop drinking alcohol / drugs / cigarettes.
Quitting a vice or a bad habit is something many people promise themselves during the start of the New Year. This New Year’s resolution is also common even for people who are not struggling with substance abuse.
It is no secret that alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes damage a person’s health and well-being, however, this knowledge does not stop people from drinking and using these harmful substances. For people in addiction recovery, being sober is something that they work towards every single day, especially if they have suffered from a relapse before.
I will go to meetings regularly.
During the New Year, it is common for people in recovery to promise themselves to devote time to recovery meetings. Going to recovery meetings on a regular basis is a huge part of staying sober. However, not everyone in recovery prioritizes these meetings especially when they get distracted by life’s demands
Recovery meetings can keep you grounded and also motivated to stay on track. Keep in mind that when you attend a meeting, you are not only helping yourself, you are also potentially helping another person with your story.
I will start eating healthy.
Maintaining a healthy diet by eating nutrient-dense food products is another major part of recovery. When you eat healthy food, you are providing your body with the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that you need to become stronger and less prone to sickness.
Feeling ill or sick will cause pain, unhappiness, and most times, the need for medication that may be addictive. When you are healthy and strong, this does not only benefit you physically but also mentally and emotionally because you get to avoid feeling these emotions.
I will start exercising.
There have been numerous studies that prove how exercise can contribute to long-term sobriety. When you exercise, your body produces happy hormones that can help relieve anxiety, depression, and other mental issues.
Of course, the physical benefits of exercise are also numerous. Just like eating healthily, exercising helps you stay stronger so you can avoid diseases.
I will find a job.
Finding a job is one of the important steps a person in recovery can take. When you earn your own money, you can become independent again and it helps you to stay responsible for yourself and your actions.
Having a job means you are a productive citizen and you can integrate yourself back into society. This is why it is one of the most common New Year resolutions for people in addiction recovery.
I will learn a new skill or hobby.
Having nothing to do can be problematic for people who are in early addiction recovery. When you are bored, this can lead to depression and sadness which can cause you to drink or use drugs. There are even some people who drink or use drugs to pass the time because they have nothing to do.
This can be resolved by occupying your time with a new hobby or learning a new skill. When you start a new hobby, you’ll have an outlet to focus your attention and energy on this activity. This could potentially help you discover new passions and find a new circle of friends who share your interests.
I will start reconnecting with my loved ones.
One of the most painful consequences of addiction is that it is often the cause of why families break apart. Family members of people who have been in treatment numerous times often find it difficult to maintain the same level of closeness with their loved ones. Even if the affection is still there, most family members choose to detach with love.
Because of this, many people in recovery try to rebuild these relationships during the New Year. For them, it is another opportunity to regain the trust of their loved ones.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.
Contact Lighthouse Treatment Center today.
