substance

Sober Systems: Find What Works for You

Life after substance addiction treatment is challenging to navigate as you are reintroduced to what life was like before recovery. However, you do not have to go back to your old patterns, behaviors, or circle of friends. When you decide to change your life, you also commit to opening yourself up to new experiences. 

While new adventures, places, or people are sometimes intimidating, so was entering detox and substance use treatment. Now you know you have the power to embrace healthy habits and block unhealthy relationships. In order to embrace life without alcohol or drugs, consider investing time into sober trends that work for you.

There are everyday hacks for living a sober, happy life. The key is to look for opportunities to use or engage in them. Of course, there are times when you invest your time and learn that a new habit is not for you. However, there will be times when you expand on newly discovered hobbies and passions. Before you can do either, find a sober system to support your recovery. With their help and a few hacks, you can navigate sober trends that can help you make a strong commitment to your overall health.

What Is a Sober System?

Sober systems consist of meaningful relationships that guide your recovery progress. Your friends and family are a part of this system. If you find guidance in groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), those are also a part of your system. 

Specific groups of people do not define a sober system. You may find a solid, sober network through activities like surfing, yoga, running, and the arts. The point of a sober support system is to find a way to channel harmful energy or thoughts into constructive energy. A sober system aids in maintaining recovery.

How Do I Find a Sober System?

One way to build a solid foundation in recovery is to look around you and identify those who want to see you succeed. Let them in on what you want to achieve in your recovery journey. Set goals and allow yourself to open up to new possibilities if your goals are obstructed or change for any reason. 

Next, look outside of your social circle. There are social groups that focus primarily on maintaining sobriety and having fun. Perhaps the simplest way to find a group that shares your interests while maintaining sobriety is to search the internet for local or online groups. 

What Is a Sober Trend?

A sober trend is anything popular and new in the recovery world. You may find that social networking provides the support you need to maintain sobriety. It is possible to use social media to find and follow similar people in recovery. There are many platforms like Twitter, Facebook (Meta), TikTok, and Instagram to do so. You can even find sober groups on Reddit or Clubhouse. 

Once you find an organization, page, or person that resonates with you, connect by following them. Over time, you can slowly start to engage in their posts. Engage with them through comments or private messages if something they post impacts your life. 

Sometimes, even the most innocuous post can change how you see the world. Think about the last time someone posted something and it made you re-evaluate things.  Use that revelation to go forward and make small or profound changes in your life. You can even start posting your own thoughts and get others to engage in your recovery process. 

What Are the Pitfalls of Sober Trends?

Like anything else, there are drawbacks to trends. For example, look at your wardrobe from ten years ago. Some things are evergreen, and other items are downright cringe-worthy. The same goes for sober trends. In-person social groups can provide a base for friendships and support. 

However, face-to-face groups can be toxic if you associate with toxic people, such as those who are not supportive of your recovery. Over time, you can outgrow people, places, or activities. Life changes, and so will you. Find what is healthy for you in the moment and evolve with time. 

Social media is another give-and-take aspect of your life. Spending vast amounts of time on social media engaging on multiple platforms or pages can detract from face-to-face interactions. Every once in a while, step back and assess how many people online you know personally. If you cannot find one person on any of the sites you follow, put down your device and get out of the habit of finding validation or support in faceless groups. 

Sober trends include sober systems, in-person interactions, or social media. You have the choice to follow, create, or build on anything to make your recovery process a positive trend for you.

When you leave substance use treatment, find what is suitable for you and your recovery. Sober trends are fun and easy to engage in once you discover them. Through searches or word of mouth, you have the opportunity to try out and throw out trends that work for or against your recovery. In-person groups that share an interest are great ways to build a healthy, sober system. Social media is another way to discover new ideas, stay on top of trends in the recovery world, and interact with others who understand what you are going through. Monte Cristo Recovery takes you through the detox process and guides you to find a healthy sober system. We believe you can achieve sobriety when you're comfortable both mentally and physically. That's why our center is conveniently located in Santa Ana and provides the best care at an affordable price. For more information, call (714) 824-9896.