Whether it’s alcohol or drugs, substance abuse takes a toll on the body and mind. The decision to get clean from drugs or alcohol is a monumental step forward, but it’s just the beginning of the recovery process. Studyfinds.com reports that 59% of people don’t feel comfortable in their own skin. This is especially prevalent in women, as 92% of all plastic surgery is performed on females, as reported by PlasticSurgery.org. That number is much higher among those in recovery.
From the physical (loss of teeth, acne, loss of muscle tone, etc.) to dealing with the guilt, shame, and even legal implications of their substance use, for example, 1/3 of all motor vehicle fatalities are related to drunk driving, it’s easy to understand why people in recovery deal with this feeling. This is why self-care is vital in overcoming addiction. In this blog, we will explore why taking care of oneself is so crucial in the recovery process.
What Is Self-care?
In recovery, self-care is about much more than going to the salon or lying on the couch all day. It’s about forming habits and doing specific activities that help improve the body, mind, and spirit. Self-care should help people feel better about themselves and prepare them to re-enter social and professional environments, as well as organize their lives.
Taking Care Of One’s Body
Getting the body back in shape is a crucial part of the self-care process. Regardless of whether an addiction is short or long-term, drugs and alcohol can ravage our physical bodies. Allowing oneself the benefits of physical self-care goes a long way in boosting confidence, and enhancing energy, strength, and vitality, all of which help people resist temptation and stay on the recovery path.
For example, if someone has lost their teeth or has acne or scars from drug use, getting dental implants or a chemical peel can make them more likely to apply for jobs and socialize in a positive setting. As mentioned, it’s estimated that the vast majority of cosmetic procedures are done by females. A good portion of them are likely women in recovery who are practicing self-care.
While the outside is important, the inside is even more important. Regaining the strength and level of personal health prior to an addiction is vital if someone is going to overcome their issue. This area should include seeing a doctor on a regular basis, developing healthy eating habits, exercising, getting enough sleep, and developing good hygiene habits. Being physically in shape can help combat many effects of addiction.
Mental Health Is A Vital Part Of Self-Care
Depression, anxiety, fear, and guilt are normal when in recovery. Part of self-care is learning to deal with these feelings in a healthy manner as they come up. Getting help from therapists, counselors, and medication call all help. It’s just as important to find hobbies and activities that will replace old habits.
Things like spending time with family and friends or going to recovery groups are great ways to keep your mind off other things and focus on building healthy relationships with people who can offer support when needed. Many people go back to school and become counselors themselves to help others. In recovery, one of the best self-care activities is to help others. Other activities that can be helpful are journaling, meditating, spending time outdoors, and cleaning and organizing your house.
Some people even join a recreational sports team or a book club. Others find comfort and guidance in church. While some of these actions can be uncomfortable at first, they go a long way to helping mental health and being able to overcome addiction.
Overcoming addiction is never easy. It takes a lot of determination and belief in oneself. Practicing proper self-care can help overcome the inevitable roadblocks that happen to everyone. It can instill confidence and allow for a happy and healthy recovery journey.