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Building a Daily Routine to Support Addiction Recovery
Sadly, addiction is something that can affect anyone – it isn’t nice at all and can lead to you going down a dark pathway. But with the right help and support, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and you can get through it.
Recovery from addiction is not just about stopping the substance or behaviour; it’s about creating a new, sustainable way of living, and that is done by looking after your mental health and putting good practices in place. When we say practices, we mean different routines which are positive, such as exercising, eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep, socialising with your friends (the right friends who will support you) and being able to speak to people when you are struggling.
To help point you in the right direction, we have put together a brief guide on building a daily routine to support addiction recovery.
Focus on eating a healthy diet
Having a bad diet can affect you in many ways. When you aren’t eating the right food and not getting your five fruits and vegetables in a day, you can feel sluggish, tired and not in the right headspace. This is when life can feel more difficult than it is. Instead, try to focus on eating well, drinking plenty of water, and enjoying the odd treat, as having a treat is what makes things more sustainable. If you struggle to drink enough water, the best tip is to buy a large bottle, such as a two-liter bottle and aim to finish it each day.
Prioritize your hobbies
Your hobbies are a way for you to escape from everyday life and enjoy doing something with the people you love. When you are trying to put a routine together, make sure you focus on giving yourself plenty of time to enjoy your hobbies. No matter your hobby, whether it’s singing, dancing, or playing a musical instrument, it will not only fill your time but remind you that recovery isn’t just about avoiding pain – it’s about rediscovering joy.
Communicate with those around you
Don’t be afraid to speak to those around you when you are having a down day. Sadly, you will have those days, but what’s important is you don’t let those days defeat you. Make sure you have a selection of people that you feel comfortable reaching out to when you are feeling low and spend plenty of time with them as part of your routine. By having a support network, you know you are never alone and have people who care about you around you. Having a pet can help with your mental health, and it can be an excuse to go on a walk with your friends, so you don’t feel pressured to talk, but can.
