Looking Beyond the Physical Aspect of Recovery
Many people believe that sobriety is solely physical. Recovery, and thus sobriety as a key component of recovery, has two counterparts: physical and emotional. Physical sobriety, the act of abstaining from alcohol, is the most tangible aspect of recovery. Many believe that once they complete the physical act of abstinence then they will be released from the emotional pulls of addiction. Unfortunately, it may not be that easy. Achieving emotional sobriety can take months, years or even a lifetime.
Understanding How Addiction Can Cripple Your Emotional Well-Being
For many people struggling with addiction, drugs and alcohol are used to cope with uncomfortable feelings. For instance, if an addict feels sad or angry, lonely or depressed, they may use a substance to numb those emotions instead of coping with them. Substances, such as drugs and alcohol, allow many people to escape harsh realities. Many times, people struggling with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety are comforted in substance abuse. The crippling effect that addiction can have on your emotional health can make recovery very difficult. While some people are able to achieve the physical aspect of sobriety (abstinence) quickly, they are unable to maintain their recovery efforts because they have never learned how to effectively cope with their feelings.
One of the best ways to overcome the emotional struggles present with addiction is through the help of a licensed therapist or counselor. Relapse prevention is a crucial part of recovery, but it takes work. Emotional triggers may be present at every turn. Understanding what a person’s individual triggers are and helping them work beyond them is a key component.