Coping with Isolation During Recovery

This article was written and published by Holdfast Recovery.

Managing Feelings of Loneliness in Recovery

When recovering from an addiction or a substance abuse disorder, it can feel like a lonely and isolating experience, to say the least. Whether you feel as though no one understands you or you’re experiencing relationship fallout due to your addiction, it’s easy to feel alone.

Isolation is a common trigger for relapse, leading you back to familiar coping mechanisms through self-medicating. However, there are plenty of positive ways to effectively manage these feelings while maintaining your sobriety.

Manage Your Anxiety

Loneliness can trigger distressing emotions like anxiety, which can be an overwhelming experience if left unchecked. Figuring out ways to manage your anxious thoughts is important to prevent unwanted relapses.

Some tips to help you manage your anxiety and other distressing emotions include:

• Get 7-9 hours of sleep each night
• Eat a balanced diet
• Read your favorite book
• Listen to music
• Take a warm shower or bath
• Go for a nature walk
• Try journaling
• Practice mindfulness meditation
• Try yoga

Stay Connected

Building a solid support system is an essential part of the recovery process. While you may feel like you’re the only one on the planet that is going through this, you’re not alone.

Call on Loved Ones for Support

Although your friends and family may not completely understand your experience, they are here to show you love and support when you need it most. Reach out to your loved ones when you’re feeling overwhelmed or upset; more often than not, they will be willing to do what they can to make you feel better.

Attend Support Group Meetings

It’s normal for people to continue going to support groups after finishing a treatment program. Establishing a routine where you attend meetings regularly can help to take the weight of isolation off your shoulders.

If you can, stay in contact with the friends and mentors you’ve built relationships with during treatment. Having people who understand exactly what you’re going through that you can lean on can help you to feel more at peace with your situation and less likely to relapse.