One of the most important lessons you will experience during recovery is the ability to do more of what you want to do. It is critical to keep your mind active and your body moving toward recovery. Remember that this is not a simple race that you win after a certain time. Rather, it is a process, a marathon, that requires constantly stopping, reassessing, and refueling to keep you moving forward.
There may be times when you may be less likely to want to get up and tackle the day. You may find that some days are just frustrating. During the winter months, there’s an increased risk that you may be feeling a bit down or unfocused. The long, darker days and cooler weather do not make the process easier. You can learn strategies to build resilience to help you through these days.
When those times start to bring you down, recognize what is happening. Then, take action. Here are a few simple tips you can take right now to remain active and engaged with your recovery, even if you really do not feel like it.
#1: Talk to Someone at a Local Recovery Group
If you are struggling right now with thoughts that could lead to negative and you find yourself overwhelmed with thoughts of life being hard, it’s time to seek help. Start with getting the care you need, including doing whatever it takes to get relapse treatment if you are thinking about using a substance again.
What if you are not at that point? There’s still reason to head to a local recovery meeting. Share your story with someone there who needs to hear it. In many cases, it can be life-saving just to talk to others. It helps them and supports your ongoing belief in your ability to heal.
#2: Get Physically Active
Studies indicate that physical activity can help reduce seasonal affective disorder, often called seasonal depression. This common condition impacts many people at this time of year. What can you do if the weather in Texas isn’t great?
- Head to a local recreation center to run a few laps around the gym.
- If it is dry outside, there’s nothing quite like a game of basketball or a jog around a lake with a good friend.
- In situations where you are working and have limited time, make physical activity more likely by parking on the other side of the parking lot or going for a walk at lunch.
- Perhaps you don’t know how to swim or have been thinking about taking up a sport. Find out if your local rec center offers it.
- Not everyone does well with vigorous activity. Consider yoga or head to a local class for dance.
The key is to get busy and burn off the stress hormone that could be causing your feelings.
#3: Connect With Nature
In Texas, the weather can be problematic some days of the year, but there are plenty of reasons to still get outside. Just getting the sun’s rays on your skin can be good for your mental health.
You can always go on your own to a local park to hike in the woods. Another option could be to find a local hiking group or start one. Explore the state and local parks using apps that can help you see all of the hard work you’re doing.
#4: Volunteer at a Local Shelter
Another form of activity for the colder months is volunteer work at shelters, women’s homes, or other areas that need help. Consider an organization that helped you, or visit a local church to find out what you can do.
Volunteering may not involve as much physical activity. However, it keeps your mind and body working and is something incredibly valuable that supports your recovery.
#5: Work on Your Goals at Home
It always helps to stick with a routine. But you may also want to engage more fully at home. Help a neighbor with a project. Consider doing a bit of yard cleanup. Spend some time reconnecting with friends at a board game night you host.
Even if these seem like simple or even silly things you have not done in a long time, they are no-cost ways to remain connected and engaged with the people around you. Over time, that helps you to build confidence, relationships, and clarity.
Know When It Is Time to Get Help
At The Ranch at Dove Tree, our alumni services allow you to remain connected with our team when you need some help. We encourage you to remain a part of the team by volunteering or just stopping by to seek our professionals.
You always can contact our drug and alcohol treatment center in Lubbock, TX, when you need a bit more help. We are here to help you 24/7.
