Recovery is a fresh start and a new way of life. However, recovery from addiction is not always a walk in the park, especially in the beginning. Early recovery can feel like a band aid is being ripped off because your old ways of coping are swiftly and suddenly removed.

In order to move forward into the recovery life, you may find it beneficial to grieve your old life. After all, your old life is familiar and comfortable, even though active addiction has been destructive. 

Journaling is a wonderful way to express your emotions. Journaling allows you to honestly express your feelings. Many people find it beneficial to re-read their journals later on so they can see just how far they have come. You need to understand that leaving addiction and entering recovery is a scary, but important decision. Every emotion that comes with this change, is okay and understandable.

Make connections with people who have been there. AA, NA, and other 12-step or support groups are where you find positive connections. The people you meet won’t understand all of your experiences, but they can relate. Recovery is a unique process for everyone who has made that first step. Allow the recovering community to be your anchor. 

Make gratitude lists and re-read them. Making gratitude lists is similar to journaling. The difference is that writing about gratitude is focused on what you are thankful for. Each morning, take a moment to consider what you are grateful for. Perhaps you are grateful to wake up without a hangover, grateful for a job, or grateful for a nice meal. Whatever you are grateful for, remember that recovery may be the reason behind your gratitude list.

As you move far away from the lifestyle that comes with addiction, it’s okay to grieve. Do your best not to stay stuck in grief. When you are new to recovery, you may feel overwhelmed or unsure. These feelings won’t last! You will move to a place where you can’t imagine going backward. Be patient with yourself, recovery is worth the journey.

Help is just a phone call away. At The Kimberly Center, we care about you and your loved ones during the recovery process. Contact us now at 855-4-KCENTER. We are committed to helping you understand addiction and recovery, as well as improve your view of self. At the Kimberly Center, you can trust our expertise to help you along your recovery journey. Give us a call today!