When you first leave treatment, life usually seems pretty sunshiney. You’re probably feeling better than you have in a while, your system is free of drugs or alcohol, and you’re filled with determination, to move forward in life and build a better future for yourself and your loved ones. That initial bubble feeling fades, however, and suddenly, life hits you like a brick wall. It could be financial troubles stemming from your addiction, lingering legal issues, or even just daily life and the issues that come with it, but when it’s your first time facing these things without drugs or alcohol to numb you or help you avoid facing it, it can feel like you’re about to get steamrolled by your own life. You may also be having other problems, maybe you’ve got damaged relationships with family and friends to repair, or you need to look for a new home.
The good news is it gets easier. Life doesn’t necessarily become easier, but once you’ve taken that first leap and faced whatever’s come your way head on in sobriety the first time, you will likely realize that it’s a lot like ripping off a bandaid. Sometimes the anticipation of having to pull it off can be scarier than actually doing it, especially if you’ve had that bandaid for a long time. Addiction is your bandaid here; instead of taking your time and peeling it off slowly, giving you the opportunity to change your mind, just yank that puppy off. It may be hard, and it may be extremely uncomfortable, but once you do it, you’re setting yourself free. You’re proving to yourself that you CAN face whatever life sends your way, and you can do it without needing to self medicate with drugs or alcohol.
Life can be hard. Life for the newly sober can seem even harder, but for most people, once they take that first step, it isn’t as scary as it may seem. So be brave, even when life is hard. It may be a struggle now, but each struggle you overcome prepares you better for the next, and before you know it, you’re able to manage whatever comes your way.
If you’re struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, that sober life is waiting for you to take charge and live it. Don’t let addiction control you another day, The Springboard Center has staff ready 24/7 to take your call and help you start your road to sobriety. Call today: 432-620-0255.
