The winter months are just around the corner. The cold wind is biting, snow is always a threat, everyone is counting down the days until spring. Your cabin fever is making you feel stuck. You’re getting a little stir crazy. And boredom can be a trigger.

Here are three practical ideas to deal with cabin fever:

Studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise can decrease the depression and anxiety associated with substance use disorder and prompt positive self-esteem and self-confidence.

Why Exercise?

Substance addiction takes its toll on every part of a person: physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual. The impact of addiction on the human body is extensive and devastating in many ways: sleeplessness and insomnia, loss of appetite and in coordination, and ultimately, a physical dependency that presents itself through cravings, flu-like symptoms, and changes in appearance that include weight loss and digestive issues.

January not only marks the beginning of a new year, but it seems to be deeply imbedded in the human psyche that we all have new opportunities because of the new calendar year. And although any time in a twelve-month period is a great time to seek help when battling an addiction to alcohol, making Dry January a “fun” reason and opportunity to experience sobriety is a great endeavor. Perhaps even a chance to continue into February, March, and so on. Just make sure that you are doing so safely by consulting a licensed physician ahead of time, as withdrawal from alcohol for some individuals can be dangerous and even lethal.

So you’ve begun to get the cravings under control and are starting to rebuild your life. You’re changing habits, changing your thinking and feeling hopeful about the future. As you begin to find more enjoyment throughout your days, you might also be thinking it would be nice to have someone to share all these beautiful things with. But before you jump head first into dating, or a relationship, you need to ask yourself if you’re really ready for dating in recovery. While finding that special someone to share your life with has many benefits, it’s also a big responsibility. Below are four questions to help you decide whether it’s time to write dating into this chapter of your life.

Achieve your New Year’s resolution to quit drugs and alcohol

While it’s customary to begin the new year with resolutions large and small, the hard reality is that 33% of resolutions survive the end of January and only 8% of people keep them overall. But it doesn’t have to be this way. By following certain approaches, you can boost your chances of success in the new year. Whether you want to stop using drugs and alcohol, begin or re-dedicate yourself to the journey of recovery from addiction, the strategies below can help you succeed.

Whether they’re with family or friends, relationships can help you stay healthy. 

Now that the holidays have passed, many of us feel relieved to be done with those obligatory get-togethers and other social functions (Zoom or otherwise). But despite the cookies, and perhaps the cocktails, all that socializing isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, connection can strengthen your recovery from substance abuse or mental health conditions, and even help with physical wellness.