We’re all creatures of habit, as they say. Once we get comfortable with a particular routine, we’re very reluctant to change it. This is true in all aspects of life and in all our behaviors, including substance abuse. What we tell the people we work with at our Sacramento drug rehab is that focusing too much on all that is involved in making a lasting change in your life can be overwhelming. For some people, the key to success is simply taking that first step.
Breaking Free of Behavior Patterns
Succeeding in changing just one small thing in your life can give you the confidence and the momentum to change others. And over time, that snowball effect can be what you need to achieve recovery and stay clean and sober. Here are some things you can do to get started:
Get more sleep. With a problem as big as drug addiction, it’s easy to dismiss the suggestion to get more sleep as pointless or inconsequential. But, being better rested can give you the energy you need to make better decisions and be more dedicated to sticking with them.
React differently. A loved one brings up your substance abuse and you immediately offer an excuse or get defensive. It happens over and over, and nothing ever changes. Instead of blurting out your standard reply, try saying something different, like, “I appreciate you caring enough to confront me about that.” The conversation may then go to a much more productive place.
Open up to one person. Maybe you’re not ready to tell your family about your addiction, connect with a counselor, and join a support group. That’s OK. But making it a goal to open up to just one person about your problem may give you a comfort level with taking additional steps.
Pray or meditate. If you don’t currently have a spiritual practice, try starting one. Worst case scenario, it takes a few minutes out of your day. But, there’s the possibility that it will start to change your perspective and give you the peace of mind you need to take on your addiction.
Start Here
It is said that “the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” The same is true of the journey to personal transformation. Contact us today at (800) 205-6107 to find out about the services we offer at our Sacramento drug rehab.
Content medically reviewed by Vicky Magobet, PMHNP-BC, on September 25th, 2017.
