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By Adam Cook
Addiction is a deadly disease. Overdoses killed more than 64,000 Americans in 2016, with over 20,000 of these deaths being related to fentanyl and fentanyl analogs. Beyond overdoses, addiction can lead to other serious ailments that may deteriorate quality of life and eventually lead to premature death. Among some of the deadly diseases drug and alcohol abuse can lead to include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- HIV/AIDS
- Respiratory disease
- Cirrhosis of the liver
- Hepatitis
- Immunosuppression
- Cancer
While addiction recovery can save a life, the addict has to make serious life changes in order for this to happen. Addiction recovery requires more than simply quitting substance abuse. Addicts need continued counseling and support to discover the root issues behind their drug or alcohol use. Not everyone’s lifestyle changes in the same way. Here are a few healthy habits people may select to use to facilitate sobriety.
Attend Therapy
Addiction is a disease that manipulates how the brain works in order to make the body compulsively consume the substance of choice. However, more often than not, the addict has underlying issues that made him/her turn to substance use in the first place. Regular therapy helps people address their problems and thoughts that lead to difficult feelings. Therapists then provide healthy coping mechanisms a person can use in place of drugs or alcohol. Furthermore, therapy gives an addict an outlet where he/she can express feelings in a place free of judgment. Addiction recovery can be a lonely process. Having someone in your corner that is willing to listen can make it a bit easier.
Exercise Regularly
The changes in brain chemistry that addiction spurs do not have to be permanent. It’s actually possible to retrain the brain and regulate the release of neurotransmitters, including dopamine. Exercise is a helpful tool one can use to achieve this goal. When one exercises, the brain releases dopamine which can help kill the craving for drugs. Over time, the body remembers how to function without substance abuse, and living soberly becomes easier. Furthermore, exercise releases endorphins and serotonin, two kinds of neurotransmitters that reduce feelings of depression, relieve pain, and help regulate the sleep cycle. Speaking of which…
Establish a Sleep Schedule
Some people tend to underestimate the importance of sleep. Without enough rest, the brain and body cannot function at the highest levels. People that abuse drugs and alcohol often experience sleep problems, including insomnia. Break the bad cycle by establishing concrete times to go to bed and wake up. Keep that schedule every day– even on the weekends. Getting the body into a natural rhythm can help decrease feelings of anxiety, brain fog, and depression. If you have trouble falling asleep, start practicing tactics that ease the body into rest at least an hour before bedtime.
More Healthy Habits
Going to therapy, exercising, and maintaining a healthy sleep schedule are lifestyle changes everyone can benefit from. However, there are still many hours in the day to fill. Try out one or more of the healthy hobbies and habits list below. These suggestions are also good ways to help maintain sobriety.
- Spend time outdoors.
- Start cooking your meals.
- Learn something new.
- Enjoy more personal time.
- Start investing your extra money.
- Spend time at farmers markets.
- Practice meditation.
- Join a yoga studio.
- Get your annual physical exam.
- Make plans to spend time with those you love.
- Read more books.
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Addiction recovery can save a person’s life, but it is anything but easy. An addict has to make serious lifestyle changes that support sobriety. Going to therapy, exercising, and maintaining a healthy sleep schedule can help build the foundation for a healthy and sober life.
Adam Cook
addictionhub.org
information@AddictionHub.com