STAYING SOBER TIPS

1) STAY OUT OF RISKY SITUATIONS Don't go somewhere you used to drink at or spend time with someone you used to do drugs with. Maybe, you should find a new way home from work to keep from going past your favorite old hangout. 2) BUILD A SUPPORT NETWORK Even if your relationships are not what they used to be, lean on family and close friends. Think about family therapy or counseling to help with that. It can also help with other personal issues. For social events, like a wedding or party, invite a sober friend for your plus-one. Have a sponsor. Stay in touch and call him if you feel anxious or uncomfortable. 3) FIND A PEER SUPPORT GROUP Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous are other ways to have a support network. You can connect with others who are going through the same things you are with several smartphone apps. 4) MANAGE YOUR URGES It can be hard to fight off urges even if they last only 15 to 30 minutes. Chewing gum or chanting a personal mantra are good substitutes. You can distract yourself by staying busy. Some people keep a journal. 5) FIND AN ACTIVITY THAT MEANS SOMETHING TO YOU Exercise releases brain chemicals called endorphins, which can make you feel good. That is a good reason to start an exercise routine. Spending time volunteering at an animal shelter or children's hospital are good causes. New activities can lead to new friends with your interests. 6) LEARN TO MANAGE STRESS In your recovery, at some point you will become stressed. It maybe minor like running late for an appointment or major like losing a job. Find a loved one or sober friend for support that you can talk to when things like this happen. To help your mind stay healthy and positive during recovery, keep your body healthy. Make time for exercise, get a healthy amount of sleep and eat a balanced diet. 7) LEARN TO RELAX You tend to do what is familiar when you are tense. You are more open to new things when you are relaxed. Maybe you might try: meditation, reading, yoga, music, breathing exercises, a nature walk, a bath or a massage. 8) MANAGE PHYSICAL PAIN Your doctor will be careful with the pain medication she gives you if you need surgery or have an injury. Some drugs can make you relapse. Ask your doctor about nonmedical ways to manage your pain, like acupuncture or massage. 9) PREPARE YOUR STORY If someone asks why you're sober, decide what you will say. In case you can not avoid the conversation, it is good to have a response ready. You can say that drugs or alcohol became a problem for you, so you're staying away from them. You could also say you quit for health reasons. 10) BE THE DESIGNATED DRIVER Designated driver gives you a quick and easy explanation for not drinking. It can help you stay focused by giving you a sense of purpose. 11) TRY A MOCKTAIL If you need to feel more comfortable where people are drinking, having a mocktail may help. This can keep people from asking questions. WebMD