It’s no secret that the first month of sobriety can be tough. You’re making a major lifestyle change and dealing with withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and other challenges. But it’s important to remember that this is just a temporary phase.
With time and commitment, you will start to feel better physically and emotionally. Here’s what you can expect in the first month to the first sober 90 days.
Early Sobriety Is Hard
The first few days are the hardest – you may feel like you’re in withdrawal. That’s because withdrawal symptoms can last for weeks or even months.
During this time, it’s important to stay hydrated and eat healthy foods. You can also take a few multivitamins to help your body recover from the severe effects of alcohol.
Cravings Are Common
Cravings are one of the most difficult withdrawal symptoms of early sobriety.
They can be intense and seemingly impossible to resist. But cravings are just a normal part of the recovery process.
The good news is that they will eventually go away. However, there are a few things you can do to manage your cravings, such as exercise, drinking plenty of water, and distraction techniques.
You May Feel Anxious Or Depressed
Another common challenge is dealing with anxiety and depression. This is often caused by the changes in brain chemistry that occur when you stop drinking.
The physical and mental health will get affected, but again, this is just a temporary phase, even though it’s one of the more severe symptoms.
With time, your brain will adjust to the new normal and these symptoms will dissipate.
To ease your anxiety and depression, try therapy, professional medical advice, and self-care.
You May Experience Sleep Issues
Many people who quit alcohol consumption struggle with sleep issues. This is because alcohol disrupts your natural sleep cycle. You may have trouble sleeping, or you wake up frequently during the night.
But don’t worry, the difficult sleeping phase is temporary. With time, disturbed sleep will improve.
To help yourself sleep better, try establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and nicotine, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
You May Feel Irritable Or Moody
When going through the early days of sobriety, it’s common to feel irritable or moody.
This is caused by the changes in brain chemistry that occur when you stop drinking.
With time, your mood will stabilize.
In the meantime, try exercise and relaxation techniques, and join support groups to manage your symptoms.
You May Feel Weak Or Tired
One of the most common physical withdrawal symptoms people face in the early days of sobriety.
This is caused by the changes in brain chemistry that occur when you quit drinking.
But again, this is just a temporary phase. With time, as your alcohol addiction treatment progresses, your energy levels will increase.
Alcohol Abuse Has Its Ups And Downs
You’ll most likely start to feel better after a week but be prepared for some ups and downs.
On the good days, you’ll feel motivated and hopeful.
On bad days, you may feel discouraged and might start feeling like drinking alcohol.
But it’s important to remember that this is just a normal part of the recovery process.
With time and commitment, you will eventually reach your goals and make it through your sobriety journey.
The Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Might Come Unexpectedly:
It’s important to find support during this time, whether it’s from friends, family, or a support group.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s recovery journey is different.
It’s commonly reported that in the first few weeks, it can be a little difficult to manage symptoms.
In early recovery, the central nervous system is still adjusting to life without drinking heavily.
There may be relapse triggers all around you, you might crave alcohol and deal with overwhelming emotions.
Quitting alcohol is hard, but you can achieve sobriety successfully with the right support system and healthier coping mechanisms.
Overcoming Alcohol Addiction Takes Time:
Sometimes you want to drink or use drugs again, but remember why you decided to get sober in the first place.
Sobriety is a journey, not a destination.
It takes time to heal the physical and emotional damage caused by alcohol abuse.
But it’s important to remember that sobriety is possible. If you’re struggling in the early days of sobriety, don’t give up. Reach out for help and continue to take things one day at a time.
You’ll Have To Celebrate The Little Moments:
Celebrate all of the little moments. Every day that you stay sober is a victory.
Reward yourself for your hard work and dedication.
Remember, feeling scared is okay, but don’t let fear stop you from getting sober. Remember, you’re not alone.
Reach out for help when needed, and take things one day at a time.
How To Make The First Month Of Sobriety Easier
Although the first month of sobriety can be tough, there are things you can do to make it easier.
Find A Support Group Or Sponsor:
You might need someone to talk to who understands what you’re going through, it can be incredibly helpful.
With a support group, you can share your struggles and successes with others who are going through the same thing.
Create A Sober Network Of Friends:
Spending time with people who don’t drink or use drugs can help you stay on track.
Try activities like hiking, biking, or going to the movies.
Set Realistic Goals:
Trying to do too much too early on can be overwhelming. Set lots of small goals for yourself and focus on one day at a time.
This is important because early sobriety is often unpredictable.
Find A Healthy Coping Mechanism:
Drinking and using drugs is not a healthy way to cope with stress or other emotions.
Try healthy habits such as journaling, talking to a friend,
Avoid High-Risk Situations:
If you know there will be alcohol or drugs around, it’s best to avoid that situation altogether.
Make Healthy Choices:
Healthy habits will help your body heal from the damage caused by substance abuse.
Focus on your recovery. This is a time when you need to focus on yourself and your sobriety. Don’t try to do too much too soon.
Sobriety is a journey, and the first month is just the beginning. With time and commitment, you will start to feel better physically and emotionally.
Remember, you need to take things one day at a time and reach out for help when needed.