Staying sober during summer can be difficult, especially if your peers are drinking. Here are a few tips we gathered to help you stay on your road to recovery.

Identify Your Triggers

A major part of preventing relapse is understanding what triggers your drinking. Some examples of triggers may include:

• Stress
• Emotional distress
• People who use drugs and drink
• Parties
• Relationship issues
• Job or financial troubles

Recognize Relapse Warning Signs

Relapsing is, unfortunately, very common and can sneak up on you. A relapse doesn’t occur when you pick up a drink. It happens in three phases: emotional relapse, mental relapse and physical relapse. Be sure you can recognize the signs to help you work towards a better you.

Warning signs of relapse may include:

• Seeking out situations with people who are bad influences on you
• Irrational thinking
• Returning to addictive thinking patterns

Build a Support Network

Recovery is tough and it helps to have loved ones to lean on. Try meeting and hanging out with peers who understand your situation and can hold you accountable. Here are a few ways to help you get started:

• Join a peer support group such as Alcoholics Anonymous
• Seek counseling or therapy
• Join a group activity that doesn’t trigger your drinking (i.e. sports, art classes or community outreach).
• Get involved in your community and meet new people

Explore New Hobbies

Find an activity or hobby to keep your mind occupied and to release endorphins. This will help boost your mood and help your overall recovery. Here are a few activities to consider:

• Hiking, biking or walking
• Start an exercise routine
• Explore your passions
  • Take classes to further your education
  • Try revisiting hobbies that you used to enjoy

At the end of the day, recovery is hard. And we know that you need a team of people behind you to support you on your journey. Contact CADS today to learn more about your journey to a healthier, happier you.

Do you feel you or someone you know might be at risk?

Anyone can be affected by substance abuse. Whether you are an adolescent, adult or have a family member who is struggling with substance abuse, CADS can help with the first steps. CADS is committed to helping those in need. We are focused on support, care and treatment services designed to meet the needs of each individual and their family members.

Start today by taking our quick online assessment, click here.

Read more from CADS:

Good Reads On Recovery

Do You Know the Effects of Substance Abuse on Your Heart?

Spread the Word to End Stigmas