Confidence, self-esteem, guilt, and shame all have one thing in common: they greatly influence the success of addiction recovery. These emotions can either hinder or enhance the process, depending on how they are managed. One crucial aspect in managing these emotions and promoting overall well-being during recovery is self-care.
Self-care in addiction recovery refers to intentionally taking care of one’s physical, mental, and emotional health. But what does this look like? Why does it matter whether or not people engage in self-care during recovery? Here’s a breakdown of why self care for recovering addicts is critical and the best ways to implement it.
Improving Feelings of Guilt Through Self-Care in Addiction Recovery
Research shows time and time again that shame and guilt lead to more substance use and can be a trigger for people living with addiction. More than just a temporary feeling, chronic guilt and shame can be difficult to overcome, especially for those in recovery. It can lead to feelings of low self-worth and contribute to increased alcohol use, among other substances.
So, what can be done to combat these negative emotions? One key solution is incorporating self-care practices into addiction recovery. Self-care is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining sobriety and improving self-esteem.
Research shows that the more self-esteem someone has, the less shame and guilt they experience. Building up your self-esteem, managing feelings of shame, and learning to prioritize yourself can all begin with self care in substance abuse recovery.
Some of the many ways you can work on improving your self-esteem through self-care include:
- Setting up a spa day for yourself, including a warm bath, face mask, and massage.
- Taking time to journal or meditate on positive affirmations and self-love.
- Incorporating physical exercise into your daily routine to release endorphins and boost confidence.
- Surrounding yourself with supportive and positive friends and family members who uplift you.
- Being mindful of negative self-talk and actively replacing it with positive thoughts.
- Prioritizing healthy habits such as getting enough sleep, eating well-balanced meals, and practicing good hygiene.
- Finding hobbies or activities that bring joy and fulfillment to your life.
- Seeking therapy or counseling to work through underlying issues and build coping skills.
Self-care in addiction recovery is not only important for improving self-esteem, but also for learning to prioritize yourself again after months or even years of substance abuse. Learning to put your needs first is crucial for maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse.
Self-Care to Improve Self-Efficacy
Self-efficacy is defined as someone’s belief in their ability to achieve a goal or succeed in a specific task. In addiction recovery, building self-efficacy is crucial for overcoming obstacles and maintaining sobriety.
Studies show that certain self-care routines are linked with improved self-efficacy. These include adhering to medication and engaging in physical activity.
For those who are new to treatment, self care in early recovery can provide a sense of structure and stability. By setting small, achievable goals for self-care, individuals can build confidence in their ability to make positive changes and increase their self-efficacy.
How to Get Started With Self-Care Routines
How can someone begin incorporating self-care routines into their daily life? Here are a few tips to get started:
- Start small: Choose one or two self-care activities that you enjoy and commit to doing them regularly. This could be something as simple as taking a walk outside, reading a book, or practicing deep breathing techniques.
- Set achievable goals: Rather than trying to completely overhaul your lifestyle in one day, set small, achievable goals for yourself. This can help prevent feelings of overwhelming and make it easier to stick with your self-care routine.
- Make time for yourself: It’s important to carve out time in your schedule specifically for self-care activities. This could mean waking up earlier in the morning to have some quiet time before the day starts, or setting aside an hour in the evening to unwind and relax.
- Prioritize self-care: Many people tend to put their own needs last, but it’s important to prioritize self-care just like you would any other important task. Remember that taking care of yourself is essential for your overall well-being.
- Be mindful: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and actions. This can also help you recognize when you need to take a break and engage in self-care activities.
Discover the Power of Self-Care in Addiction Recovery Today
At Premiere Addiction Recovery, we know how scary it can be to start the process of addiction treatment. However, we believe that everyone deserves a chance at recovery, a chance to learn to prioritize themselves, and a chance to discover the power of self-care. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to help individuals achieve lasting sobriety and build a strong foundation for their future well-being.
We provide a full continuum of care for addiction treatment, from detox to inpatient treatment, family education, veteran services, and more. Call us today if you’re looking for lifelong recovery and addiction treatment in Cocoa Beach, FL.
