As the warm days of summer bear down, individuals who have recently transitioned from sober living environments to independent recovery face a unique set of challenges and opportunities.
This progression marks a significant milestone in the recovery journey and is filled with newfound freedom and responsibility. At The GateHouse, we understand the importance of this transition and have some tips on navigating your first summer of independent recovery.
Maintain Structure Without Built-in Support
One of the primary benefits of a professional sober living environment is the structure it provides. As you move into independent recovery, creating your own structure to support your ongoing healing process should be your No. 1 priority.
Here are some ideas that can help:
- Establish a Daily Routine: Set regular wake-up and bedtime hours, schedule meals, and plan daily activities. This helps maintain the stability you’ve grown accustomed to in sober living.
- Continue with Recovery Meetings: Make support-group attendance non-negotiable. These meetings provide ongoing support and help you stay connected to your recovery community.
- Create a Balanced Schedule: Include time for work, recovery activities, self-care, and leisure. A well-rounded routine helps prevent boredom and reduces the risk of relapse.
Handle Increased Freedom Responsibly
The transition to independent living comes with more freedom, which can be both a blessing and a curse.
Here are some strategies to handle this newfound independence:
- Set Personal Boundaries: Identify your limits and communicate them clearly to friends and family. This might include avoiding certain social situations or setting limits on your time.
- Practice Decision-Making: Start with small decisions and gradually work your way up to bigger ones. This builds confidence in your ability to make choices that support your recovery. For major decisions that require immediate answers, don’t hesitate to reach out to your sponsor, counselor, or trusted friends in recovery.
- Embrace Accountability: Consider using a recovery app or journaling to track your progress and hold yourself accountable.
Create a Personal Recovery Routine for Summer
Regardless of how structured your days are, summer can bring major disruptions to our usual routines. Here’s how to create a summary recovery routine that can withstand these changes:
- Incorporate Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the nice weather by including outdoor exercises and nature walks, or make outside meetings part of your warm-weather routine.
- Plan for Vacations and Holidays: If you’re planning a trip, research the nearest recovery meetings to your destination. Have a plan for maintaining your recovery practices while away from home.
- Develop New Hobbies: Summer is an excellent time to explore new interests. Consider joining a sports league, taking up gardening, or learning a new skill.
Build a Strong Support Network
Your support network is a key part of your recovery journey. Here are some ways to build and strengthen that support system:
- Stay Connected with Sober Living Alumni: Did you know the GateHouse has its own Alumni Association? Consider participating to stay connected with peers who “get it.” If you’re not an alumnus of The GateHouse, get in touch with your sober living community and see if they have an alumni association or program you can join.
- Expand Your Support Circle: Consider joining community groups, volunteering, or participating in recovery-friendly social events to meet new people who support your lifestyle.
- Maintain Professional Support: Continue seeing a therapist or counselor who specializes in substance use disorder. They can provide valuable guidance during this transitional period.
Develop Coping Strategies for Summer-Specific Triggers
Whether it’s a family gathering, a surplus of free time, or friendly temptations, summer can pose a great risk for triggering relapses. Here are some tactics to employ to avoid summer triggers:
- Navigate Social Events: Plan ahead for barbecues, weddings, and other social gatherings. Bring a sober friend, have an exit strategy, and consider bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages.
- Manage Increased Free Time: Unstructured time can be a trigger. Fill your schedule with meaningful activities, volunteer work, or part-time employment to stay engaged and purposeful. Stay active, stay healthy!
- Address Your FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Remember: it’s okay to decline invitations to events that might jeopardize your recovery. Focus on creating new, recovery-supportive summer traditions or find parallel activities that won’t lead to a relapse.
Embrace Your New Journey
Transitioning from sober living to independent recovery is a significant accomplishment. It’s a testament to your strength and commitment to healing. Recovery is a lifelong journey, and it’s okay (even important) to face challenges along the way. What matters most is how you respond to these challenges and seek support when necessary.
At The GateHouse, we believe in your ability to navigate this transition successfully. Our doors are always open for support, guidance, and resources as you embark on this new chapter of your recovery journey.
Reach out to us today to learn more about how our programs can support your path to recovery. Every movement toward improving your health is also a movement toward sustainable, long-term recovery.