Struggling with addiction takes a lot out of you. It can be scary, confusing, not to mention physically and emotionally taxing. So, it’s important, now, more than ever, when you are battling an addiction, that you take very good care of yourself and always, always, treat yourself kindly.
Here are a few simple ways you can start doing that.
Treat Yourself with Kindness as You Battle Addiction
1. Check Into a Sanctuary, Not Just Any Rehab
Going it alone can be really hard when you’re battling addiction, so it is often a good idea to check into a center that offers addiction treatment for women or men going through the process of getting clean. If you are planning to do this, then don’t just settle for the first place you find; if you can, try to find a rehab center that is really holistic in the way it treats its patients. Look for a place that sees you for who you are and offers you a truly supportive place to get well.
2. Journal Your Journey
Here’s the scoop: writing down your thoughts and feelings can be super therapeutic. It’s like having a low-cost therapist at your fingertips 24/7. No appointments necessary! Start a recovery journal to track your progress, vent those tough emotions, or list what you’re grateful for. Seeing your journey on paper (or screen) can boost your morale on the rough days and amplify joy on the good ones.
3. Create a Comfort Kit to Help you Overcome Addiction
Why not assemble a go-to comfort kit for those really rough days? Include things that soothe and uplift you. Think of it as your personal care package—maybe a favorite book, a cozy blanket, some calming teas, or that ridiculously good chocolate you love. When the going gets tough, your comfort kit is ready to give you a hug in a box.
4. Get Physical (Gently)
Moving your body is about more than just fitness—it’s a potent mood lifter. But skip the hardcore, sweat-until-you-drop routines. Opt for gentler activities like yoga, swimming, or just long walks in nature. These aren’t just good for your body; they’re like a balm for your soul, helping reduce stress and boost those feel-good chemicals.
5. Connect with Compassionate Souls
You’re not in this alone, so why isolate? Connect with people who understand what you’re going through. This could be support groups, therapy sessions, or online communities. These folks aren’t just your support network; they’re your cheerleaders, ready to lift you up when you stumble.
6. Treat Yourself
Once in a while, splurge a little on yourself. Book that massage, take that mini-vacation, buy that little something you’ve been eyeing (responsibly, of course). Small rewards can be huge motivators and remind you that recovery includes creating moments of happiness.
7. Get Mindful as You Recover from Addiction
Embracing mindfulness can change the game in addiction recovery. Spend a few minutes each day in meditation, focusing on your breathing and observing your thoughts without judgment. It’s about being present in the moment, which can significantly reduce anxiety and cravings.
Battling addiction is undoubtedly one of the toughest fights you’ll ever face, but if you treat yourself with kindness along the way it will make your journey less of a battle.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a private sector corporate executive and 15 years as a consultant. The common thread through her professional life has been a commitment to compassionate coaching and leadership, including mentoring early and mid-career professionals as well as current and future executives and leaders. KindCompassCoach articles are backed by research and include facts and advice from relevant experts. Joan is a member of the International Organization of Life Coaches, serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.
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