Many people wonder what to expect in the first 30 days of recovery. Choosing a life of recovery is choosing freedom from addiction. Recovery is available to anyone that wants it and is willing to do the work. Through the first month of your sobriety, you’ll learn a lot about tools to stay sober and meet people you can count on. You may feel overwhelmed or worry about losing your footing. If you’re having a hard time, try to remember that this too shall pass, and every day sober is better than a day when you were using.
Getting sober is an awesome and powerful decision. While you may be powerless over your addiction, you’re responsible and empowered by tools for recovery.
So what kinds of changes can you expect in the first 30 days of recovery?
Changes in Your Thinking and Feeling
After your body has detoxed from the drugs and alcohol, you’ll find that your thoughts are changing. Some thoughts you may think of as “good” while others, like the desire to get high, are probably something you think of as “bad.”
These changes are normal and a part of the healing process. Just remember, you don’t have to use it if you don’t want to. You can pick up the phone and call your sponsor or head to a 12-step meeting when you have painful thoughts or feelings.
Adjusting Your Attitude
In your first 30 days of recovery, you’ll learn time to live one day at a time.
One thing you can start to take control of is your attitude. While this may seem simple, it takes some work to adjust if you’re used to being negative or angry. Writing and saying daily affirmations, using the serenity prayer when you’re feeling stressed, and learning self-care like meditation and relaxation can help you become more positive.
You’ll also get some clues on adjusting your thinking and attitude from the frequent sayings in meetings. If you’re having difficult thoughts or feelings, remind yourself that it’s normal. This too shall pass. You won’t feel this way forever. Acknowledge the emotions you’re struggling with and talk to somebody you trust such as a sponsor or therapist.
Journaling, exercise, and learning breathing techniques are a few great ways to help you regulate your emotions.
Change Takes Time
Changing yourself takes time. Sometimes, the only thing you will feel capable of is not drinking or using. That’s okay, too. Easy does it. You didn’t become addicted overnight, and you won’t recover overnight. Just don’t pick up a drink or a drug, and things will get better.
Sometimes we need baby steps to institute small changes a day at a time. You don’t have to make these changes without guidance; consult your support network and ask for guidance.
There is a lot of experience, strength, and hope available for those in recovery. You just need to ask for help and use the tools that you’re given.
Getting Help for Addiction
Are you or somebody you love addicted to drugs or alcohol? Recovery is possible and a safe, empathetic detox environment can help you get started. Get the help you need to start your recovery journey by calling us at 1-800-970-8774. All calls are 100% confidential and we are happy to answer any questions you have.
