Importance of Self-Care in Recovery
Why Self-Care Matters in Recovery
Because it embodies the spirit of recovery, practicing self-care complements and builds on everything you learned during treatment. One simple process–recognizing your feelings, identifying their source, and taking action–is a valuable skill in dealing with everything from anxiety and depression, to social connections, and everyday health.
Spend time taking care of yourself and developing your self-care plans, eventually, it becomes second nature. Each effort teaches you something new about your health and well-being. It builds confidence in your own judgment, ability, and strength. You’ll let go of all the shame, guilt, resentment, and remorse eating away at your emotional health.
Put it all together and what you get is stability. Caring for yourself keeps you grounded in what matters most in your daily life. There’s no need to go chasing after every spike in your emotions. You can take your time, calmly reflect on your needs, and weigh the best options. Relapse is less likely when you’re on firm ground.
Addiction Treatment that
Just Works
Individualized treatment programs delivered in a comfortable, relaxed setting promote healing in your recovery journey.
How to Practice Self-Care in Recovery
There aren’t many wrong ways of caring for yourself. Don’t cause anyone harm, including yourself. Don’t swap one addiction for another. Other than that, it’s whatever you need it to be.
Self-reflection is a good place to start. Spend time getting to know the clean and sober you, your goals, and which buttons need pushing to get there. Even a few minutes each night is enough to get started. “How did my day go and how do I feel about it? I really like doing that one thing. Let’s work more of it into the schedule. The family barbecue is this weekend and I just know they’re all going to pick on me again. What can I do differently to keep my cool?” You likely already know that journaling is good for your mental health and wellbeing, it’s also useful for drawing up your self-care plans.
Start with the issues that pop into your head right away. They’re the ones impacting you the most. Some answers are pretty simple–if you have a toothache, go to the dentist–the rest is up to you. Consistency is the most important thing. If five minutes is all you have to spare each day, then block it out.
This is an excellent time to try new things or fall back on what you already know. Don’t forget, you’re doing all of this to feel good about yourself, and to build confidence. Stress and anxiety are sure signs that you want to try something new.
5 Ways to Take Care of Yourself in Recovery
Here are a few self-care practices to get you started.
- Physical: Take care of your body with exercise and improved eating habits. You’ll be surprised at the impact regular meals and healthy living can have on your overall well-being.
- Emotional: Working with a licensed therapist is the safest way to explore the root causes of your addiction. Their support is essential to identifying your triggers and maintaining emotional health.
- Mental: Take a break. Redirect your anxiety into relaxing activities like spending time in nature, listening to music, or disconnecting from social media.
- Financial: Make a budget. It may seem difficult and scary but there’s really nothing like managing your finances to build self-esteem. Remember to include a little cushion so you can celebrate reaching your important milestones with loved ones!
- Spiritual: The best thing you can do here is explore. Whether that means taking a new direction or diving deeper into your established religion, regular spiritual practice strengthens your social connections and improves your overall quality of life.
Addiction Recovery Support at Resurgence
No two people experience addiction the same way. At Resurgence, we tailor our programs to the individual, knowing that your journey towards recovery is deeply personal. From day one, the team of medical professionals, certified addiction counselors, licensed therapists, and trained addiction specialists help you cultivate new and lasting habits for long-term recovery. Tap into our alumni network for even greater support and new ideas for self-care practices.
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues or addiction, the dedicated staff at Resurgence is here to help. Call today and speak with one of our trained specialists. Let our personal experience help guide you towards living your best life, free from addiction.
Learn about the importance of self-care in recovery at Resurgence! #drugaddiction #drugrehab #resurgencehttps://t.co/51dF30ig1Y
— Resurgence Behavioral Health (@RBHRecovery) September 22, 2022
Addiction Treatment that
Just Works
Individualized treatment programs delivered in a comfortable, relaxed setting promote healing in your recovery journey.
