Opioids take control of your life as they make you feel like you need them to survive. They destroy your health, relationships, and finances.
In extreme cases, you cannot even live without them. When this happens, in-patient treatment is the best way to go.
Before you get to the stage where you cannot live without opioids, here are ways to overcome the addiction:
Check Out 12 Step Programs For Opioid Addiction
The 12-step program is a set of guidelines that help an individual recover from addiction. There are many 12-step programs available, and they have proved to be successful in treating addiction.
The program best works when you attend 12 steps meetings and follow the program to the letter.
The programs are based on the idea that addiction is a disease overcome with the help of a higher power.
The 12 steps include admitting that you have a problem, acknowledging that you cannot control the addiction, making amends for the harm you have caused, and committing to staying sober.
Analyze and Make Changes To Your Lifestyle
Your lifestyle plays a significant role in your addiction. Living a stressful life makes you more likely to use drugs to cope.
If you associate with people who use drugs, you will likely start using them. Analyze your lifestyle and make changes where necessary.
It means identifying and changing the things that trigger drug use. If you cannot change your lifestyle, you can at least try to avoid the triggers. Do not go to places you are likely tempted to use.
Also, try to keep yourself busy, so you don’t have time to think about drugs. Account for every hour, and if you find free time, use it to do something constructive.
Join A Support Group
A support group is where people with the same experience meet to offer and receive emotional help. The group provides a sense of belonging, and you feel less alone in the battle against addiction. In a support group, you will also get practical tips on how to stay sober.
You can join an in-person or online support group. If you are uncomfortable attending meetings, get help from an online forum. Look for a reputable group with experienced facilitators.
Find a Therapist That Specializes In Opioid Addiction
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an effective addiction treatment. The therapist will help you understand the thoughts and behaviors contributing to the addiction. You will also learn how to change these thoughts and behaviors.
The therapy enables you to identify triggers and develop coping mechanisms. You will also learn how to deal with cravings and avoid relapse.
Apart from cognitive-behavioral therapy, you can also try other types of treatment, such as dialectical behavior therapy and contingency management.
They have all proved effective in treating addiction as they change how you think and behave.
Find A Sober Living Home
A sober living home is where you live with other recovering addicts. The environment is drug-free, and you are expected to follow specific rules such as curfew and chores. Sober living homes transition you back to society.
They also provide structure and support, which is essential in early recovery. You will also have the opportunity to rebuild your life, make new friends, and find a job.
Most importantly, you will be away from the triggers and temptations that lead to relapse.
Sober living homes are ideal for those who have just completed treatment. They allow you to practice the skills you have learned in therapy and 12-step meetings.
Get A Sponsor
A sponsor is an experienced recovered addict who mentors you through your recovery journey. The sponsor will help you stay on track and accountable. They will also provide emotional support and advice.
Your sponsor will be someone you can call when you struggle to stay sober. They will help you develop a recovery plan and be there when you need someone to talk to. You can find one online or ask your therapist or support group for a referral.
Restructure Your Life
Over the years, you may lose focus, the zeal to achieve your goals, and the ability to live a meaningful life. As you focus on getting and using drugs, other aspects of your life, such as work and relationships, suffer.
One of the best ways to stay sober is to restructure your life. Set goals and achieve them. Focus on your career and work hard to achieve success.
Additionally, invest in your relationships. Spend time with your family and friends, and nurture these relationships. These people will be your support system. You need them to stay sober.
Lastly, take care of your health. Eat healthy foods, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. When you are healthy, you will have the energy and strength to fight addiction. Exercising reduces stress, a relapse trigger.
Change Your Friends
The people you associate with can either help or hinder your recovery. To stay sober, check who you associate with.
Your old friends may still be using drugs and will likely tempt you. They may also force you into situations where you are likely to relapse.
On the other hand, your new friends will support your sobriety. They will help you stay on track when you need them. They may also be in recovery themselves, so they understand what you are going through.
It’s not easy to cut ties with people you’ve known or shared memories with for long. However, it is necessary for your sobriety.
Start by avoiding places where you used to use drugs. Then, find new friends and activities that you enjoy.
Get A Hobby
When you’re in active addiction, your life revolves around drugs. Once you get sober, you need to find a new hobby or interest. It fills the void that was once occupied by drugs. Find something you’re passionate about and invest your time in it.
It can be playing an instrument, hiking, reading, dancing, or anything else that excites you.
Having a hobby gives you something to look forward to and focus on other than drugs. Other than this, get a pet.
It offers companionship, love, and support, reducing anxiety and loneliness. Owning a pet decreases stress levels and blood pressure.
Don’t Give Up
It’s not an easy journey, but it’s manageable with the right support system, including friends, family, and professionals.
It might take time, sometimes longer than anticipated, but your willpower to stay sober will eventually pay off. Even when you relapse, don’t give up; get back up and try again.
