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Fluctuations in energy levels are a normal part of life but, if you are recovering from an addiction, loss of motivation can put you at risk of relapse. This is because it may mean that you stop doing the things that have been keeping your sober. Lack of motivation can also mean you become stuck in recovery, leading to dissatisfaction that can then become an excuse to relapse. Here are just a few ideas about how you can deal with loss of motivation in recovery.
Loss of Motivation as a Sign You Are Going Off Track
Everyone has a ‘bad day’ and this can actually stretch to a few days, but if you have been dealing with lack of motivation for longer than a week then it could be a sign that you are off-track. It is vital that you find the source of this wrong turn because things will probably not be able to improve until you do so. If you belong to a recovery group, you can turn to these people for advice – this is when having a sponsor who knows you well can be a great help. One of the benefits of keeping a daily journal is that you might also find clues there about why you have gone astray. If you feel that you are off-track but cannot figure out why, it might be a good idea to speak to a therapist.
Are You Dealing with Depression?
It is fairly common for people who develop addiction problems to also have issues with depression. In many cases, this condition can go undiagnosed and you may mistake your lack of motivation as just being due to something you are doing wrong. If it is depression then the situation is unlikely to improve until you get the help you need to manage the condition. Do not just take the word of people who tell you that your lack of motivation is a sign you need to work harder in recovery. If there is any chance that you could be dealing with depression, you need to speak to your doctor about the situation.
Are You Getting Enough Exercise?
If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, it will have an impact on your energy levels. It can mean that you feel sluggish all the time and your thinking can feel a bit fuzzy. The solution is to get your body moving. You do not have to run a marathon, and even going for a walk for 30 minutes per day might be enough to get you back on track, although you really should try to do some cardiovascular exercise as well.
Are You Getting Enough Sleep?
One of the main symptoms of not getting enough sleep is lack of motivation. It is important that you have a regular schedule for sleeping and that you get enough hours asleep to suit your needs – the average is about 8 hours. It is also important to avoid caffeine in the hours preceding going to bed. If you suffer from insomnia then it is important to try some home remedies but, if this does not work, speak with your doctor.
Action You Can Take to Boost Your Motivation in Recovery
Here are a few steps you can take to give your motivation a boost in recovery:
- spend time with people who have a high level of motivation – some of this is likely to rub off on you
- try to avoid spending too much time with negative people
- listen to motivational talks and read self-help books
- avoid eating junk food
- go to more recovery meetings until your motivation returns
add some new activities to your life, such as meditation.
