Learn facts about staying sober if you're battling an addiction. Alcoholism is a disease with four symptoms, including a constant craving for a drink, losing control once you start drinking, physical dependence and tolerance. "Drug addiction is a brain disease because the abuse of drugs leads to changes in the structure and function of the brain," according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Take steps to improve your chances for a successful recovery.
Significance
Someone with an addiction has no control over when he uses drugs or alcohol, according to KidsHealth.org. Learn how to stop the cycle of addiction. Focus on sobriety, which means fighting the urge to give into your addiction. While you can attend a center for drug or alcohol treatment, you still have to work on staying sober after treatment. Avoid trading in your drug or alcohol addiction with a replacement addiction, such as food, shopping or sexual addiction.
Considerations
The most commonly abused prescription drugs include depressants, stimulants and such opioids as OxyContin and Vicodin, according to the National Institute of Drugs and Alcohol. If you have too much time on your hands, it can lead to a relapse of such highly addictive drugs. Find an activity that occupies your free time and boosts your self-confidence. Work on your physical fitness. Choose a sport that motivates you to compete while displaying your talents and physical abilities. If you prefer a less strenuous activity, try crafts, puzzles, reading or volunteer work. Keep your mind busy so you're less likely to think about your addiction.
Health
People suffering from addictions often have poor health. Drugs and alcohol can damage your liver, heart, pancreas and kidneys. Alcohol also can increase your chance of developing certain cancers or suffering a stroke, according to the National Institutes of Health. Your organs have to work harder to fight off the damaging effects of drugs and alcohol. Make positive health choices. Eat a well-balanced diet. Work out at least 30 minutes every day, as many as five days a week, to help get your body healthy again.
Warning
Sober living is tough, especially without the support of your family members and friends. Keep your distance from friends who still use or abuse alcohol and drugs. Surround yourself with positive reinforcement and people who enjoy a sober and clean lifestyle. Avoid exposure to alcohol or addictive drugs, which can tempt you to slip up and take that first drink after sobriety.
Support Groups
Join a support group (see Resource). One bad decision can strip away all your hard work and sobriety. Talking with people who are dealing with the same issues will help you stay sober. Such groups also will help you make positive choices. Support groups offer an open floor discussion that lets you share your struggles, according to RelapsePrevention.org. Support group members will listen to your problems and offer suggestions. Joining a group will help you reaffirm your goals.
References
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: FAQ for the General Public
- National Institute on Drug Abuse: NIDA InfoFacts: Understanding Drug Abuse and Addiction
- TeensHealth: What Are Substance Abuse and Addiction?
- National Institute on Drug Abuse For Teens: Prescription Drug Abuse
- National Institute on Drug Abuse: Alcohol
