5 Ways to Stop Being Lonely in Recovery

Addiction treatment in Florida gives you tools to move beyond substance use disorder. However, the recovery process occurs in a clinical environment where clients have little access to friends and family members. As you work through substance abuse treatments in Florida, you may find yourself a little lonely. Therefore, having a way to relieve that feeling can help you concentrate on recovery.

Need help making your recovery easier? Call us today at 866.605.0532. The addiction recovery care we provide can help you.

Combating Loneliness in Addiction Recovery

When we face obstacles in life, we usually turn to those around us for support and advice. Outside of addiction rehab, this group includes your family and friends. So, who can help you abate loneliness while going through detox and recovery?

A group therapy program in Florida introduces you to other clients in different stages of recovery. The benefits of group therapy include the following:

• Participating in group therapy can help you feel less lonely.
• Members of the group give you a sounding board for decisions, regrets, and other emotions.
• A group therapy program in Florida can provide information and advice on the recovery process.
• You can help others by participating in group therapy and encouraging their peers.

5 Ways to Stop Being Lonely in Recovery

Loneliness in addiction recovery can derail your progress if you don’t take steps to correct it. The following strategies can help you get to know people in recovery and beyond.

1. Remain Open to New Acquaintances

During addiction treatment in Florida, you learn the importance of establishing relationships that support your recovery efforts. This often includes letting go of harmful relationships that could lead to relapse. If you can forge new friendships during recovery, it can help to fight loneliness. Start with small talk and work your way up to deeper conversations. Further, this is great practice for forming new relationships once you return home.

It’s also important to realize that not all friends are good for you. Some friends may still be using drugs or alcohol, which can put you at risk for relapse. If you have friends like this, it’s best to distance yourself and find new friends who support your recovery. Don’t be afraid to let go of relationships that are harmful to your sobriety. When you’re in a healthy and supportive environment, it’s easier to maintain your sobriety. Forge new friendships during addiction treatment in Florida, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful recovery.

2. Ask Someone to Correspond With You

Ideally, you should try to initiate conversations to make drug and alcohol addiction treatment less lonely. However, some clients find it hard to speak with someone they don’t know. As an alternative, you can ask someone to write letters to you or chat with you online. Hearing from supportive friends can prevent loneliness in addiction recovery.

3. Read a Good Book

Immersing yourself in an entertaining book can help you feel less lonely in addiction treatment in Florida. It also keeps your mind engaged, making it less likely to dwell on cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Reading relieves stress and stimulates your mind, and can make you feel less lonely. However, choose books with an uplifting theme to help you keep a positive attitude.

4. Participate in Group Activities

Beyond participating in a group therapy program in Florida, you can take part in group activities. This includes playing games or watching television with other clients and participating in holistic therapies such as yoga or experiential therapy. Shared experiences build positive relationships inside and outside of substance abuse treatments in Florida. Further, it’s a great way to reduce loneliness in addiction recovery.

Research shows that group activities can help people recovering from addiction stay sober. One recent study found that people who participated in 12-step programs and regularly engaged in social activities were more likely to remain sober than those who didn’t. Group activities can provide a sense of community, which is especially important for people in early recovery who may feel isolated and alone.

If you’re looking for ways to get involved in your community and stay sober, group activities are a great option. Talk to your therapist or treatment center about the groups and activities available in your area. You may also want to explore online communities or support groups that offer social activities.

5. Start a New Hobby

Begin a new hobby or return to a favorite activity you used to enjoy before using drugs or alcohol. Practicing a hobby can lower your stress levels and alleviate loneliness in addiction recovery. Mindfulness meditation, journaling, and other holistic approaches can help you gain important insight during the recovery process. As a bonus, these coping skills help you deal with cravings in more positive ways.

Substance abuse treatments in Florida include evidence-based psychotherapy to help you process your emotions wisely. Loneliness and addiction recovery can discourage your recovery and make you vulnerable to relapse. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone to get the most out of your group therapy program in Florida.

If you need additional help in recovery, call Beaches Recovery today at 866.605.0532.