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Loneliness can be very dangerous in early recovery. It is an emotion that can cause those in recovery to start thinking of the past and the ‘fun’ they used to have while using drugs or drinking alcohol. Being alone gives you so much more time to think, so it is important to keep busy to help avoid relapse.
Some people do not know how to be alone without feeling lonely. Recovering addicts need to learn how to enjoy their own company as this will ensure they can keep their sobriety on track. Meditation is an excellent way to fill the void you feel when alone. These relaxation techniques are used to help you get in touch with your inner being. Practicing meditation can help you to feel calm and comfortable when you are alone.
Keep Busy
There are many hobbies that you can do by yourself, such as reading, puzzles, knitting, baking, or crafting. If you develop a hobby that you love, you will always have something to do when you are alone. By keeping busy, you will find that the time passes quickly, and you will never have a chance to get bored or feel lonely.
Learn
Many recovering addicts take the time to learn while in recovery. There are many online courses available that you can study for in your spare time. This is a great way for you to improve your knowledge while keeping busy. The great thing about many online courses is that you can study at your pace, meaning that there is no pressure on you to meet deadlines.
Get Active
Exercise releases natural endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals. If you want to stave off depression and loneliness, start exercising. You could join a local gym and have them create an exercise programme for you. Alternatively, you could create an exercise regimen at home. It may just be a thirty-minute walk every day, or you could start running. The NHS has plenty of information on how to get active with its ‘Change for Life’ couch-to-5K app. This aims to get individuals who have never run off the couch and running 5 kilometres in just nine weeks.
Meet Up with Friends or Family
If you really do not like being alone, then spend more time with family and friends. However, make sure that you are doing things that do not involve alcohol or drugs. Go shopping or for lunch with family members, or catch the latest blockbuster at the cinema. If you are finding it difficult to get friends and family members on board because they have other commitments, consider joining a recovery-based programme that offer activities such as hikes, trips to the country, or movie nights. This a great way to have fun while meeting new people at the same time.
Watch TV Box Sets
The internet has enabled a world of entertainment to be right at your fingertips, so as long as you have an internet connection, you will really never have an excuse to be bored. There are many fantastic movies or TV box sets available at the push of a button. Check out the latest box sets available from most TV providers. Invite one of your friends over and you can watch them together and then talk about what you have watched afterwards, which is part of their appeal. And when you finish one box set, simply download another and start again.
Talk to a Professional
If you are feeling lonely, it may be the case that you just need someone to talk to. If you find you do not have anyone to speak to, contact your counsellor. Alternatively, call us here at Rehab Helper and we will be happy to listen to you and offer advice and support.
