Tools For Sobriety
The term, toolbox, is frequently used in addiction recovery speak. Most of us have no idea what a toolbox is or what kind of tools live inside, until we get sober and actually have to use them. The tools in this type of box, are ones that are used as a coping mechanism to change or relieve our present state.
Using Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Of course, there other tools that we know quite well, namely, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, sugar, etc., that are also coping mechanisms, albeit unhealthy ones. In recovery, we have to learn new ways of handling life and all its curve-balls or else we risk falling back on our old habits and back to the pit of addiction.
If you decide to go to treatment, you will be given a wealth of new tools, plus the practice to go along with them. Whether you are feeling lonely, anxious, upset, ecstatic, stressed, or even just tired, reaching for a drink/line/hit/pill or fix just doesn’t work anymore—not if you want to change your life. Those coping mechanisms have to go, and new ones have to replace them.
Examples of Some Tools
Some people like to have breathing techniques, yoga, coffee, massage, and hot baths in their toolbox. Others take advantage of the fellowship of a recovery program, cooking, meditation, and music. There are so many different things you can use to strengthen your recovery. Just be sure to enjoy finding them.
It is never too early or too late to benefit from having a toolbox. Most people don’t know about or get the chance to develop these neat little tools that those of us in recovery do. If they did, the world might just be a happier place.
As you are growing along in your sobriety, you may want to gather a short list of things that work for you, and work for you fast. For instance, if you start feeling a panic attack come on, you need to know how to calm yourself, and how to do it quickly. Finding your toolbox is a learning process, and the longer you stick around, the bigger it will be.
If you are struggling, and need a toolbox of your own, call The Lakehouse Recovery Center. We can help you begin your path in recovery, and prepare you for the kind of life you want to live when you leave. You can do this. Give us a call, we are available 24/7, toll-free at (877) 762-3707. We do recover, and you can too. Call today.