Transitional Sober Recovery Living

Rehabilitation does not guarantee that recovering addicts and alcoholics can resume sober living in California. Staying clean requires constant effort because cravings persist throughout the lifetime of a substance abuser. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), those dealing with substance abuse issues should use resources if they want to adhere to sober living principles. Recovering addicts and alcoholics can get support from Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and other groups that offer sober living programs.

NIAAA experts say that those who successfully stick to the principles of sober living are able to so after many attempts to make the necessary changes to their lifestyles. Here are some of the steps that a recovering alcoholic or addict needs to take in order to remain faithful to his or her sober living vow: 

Change in Environment

A recovering alcoholic needs to avoid or at least spend less time with family members or friends who drink. A recovering addict definitely needs to stay away from those who do and sell drugs. Sober living requires a change in routine. Recovering addicts and alcoholics should make sure that they do not walk or drive in streets where liquor stores and drug dealers are present. 

Eating Right

A recovering addict or alcoholic should have the proper diet if he or she wants to stay sober. Substance abuse causes damage to the body and often deprives if of the nutrients that it needs to function optimally. The proper diet for recovery is one that boosts energy and mental alertness as well as detoxifies the body. An increased intake of antioxidants, omega-3 fats, and quality carbohydrates proteins, and a decreased consumption of processed beverages and foods will be beneficial.

Exercise

Transitional living facilities often emphasize the value of physical activities to recovery. Exercise helps boost energy and minimize stress, which might increase the possibility of a relapse. Canadian researchers found that almost 70 percent of alcoholic undergoing a residential treatment program that included a vigorous exercise regimen were able to stay sober after three months while 62 percent of those who completed treatment without exercise had relapsed. 

Sleep

While it is important to stay busy during recovery, sufficient rest is also important, particularly during the early days after rehabilitation. Recovering substance abusers may have a tendency to forego rest in order to make up for the lost time. However, it is actually more difficult for them to resist old habits when fatigue sets in. Sleep is important for everyone, not just for addicts and alcoholics. But getting quality sleep is often difficult for many alcoholics since long-term alcoholism can have detrimental effects on sleep even after long periods of sobriety. Having a regular time for sleeping, managing stress levels, not eating a heavy dinner, and relaxation techniques can help increase the chances of getting better sleep.