After someone who was experiencing an addiction to a substance or alcohol has detoxed and are on their way to recovery, a secondary battle often appears that requires treatment: anxiety. Anxiety is often linked to substance abuse and is one of the common obstacles presented in recovery. Addiction and anxiety are often found together, with some of those with addiction using the substance of their choice to manage anxiety. In some cases, anxiety is the culprit behind the initial addiction. In order to manage this anxiety, use one or more of the ways below to keep it under control after reaching sobriety.

Find Your Exercise Regimen

One of the most common ways to expel anxiety that is building for someone who is in recovery is to take on regular exercise. Below are some of the most common exercise regimens that take on anxiety and make it manageable:

• Hiking
• Jogging
• Walking
• Strength-building
• Swimming

Exercise relieves stress which in turns relieves anxiety. Exercise is constructive and a healthy hobby to take on in an attempt to maintain sobriety. In many of the cases above, those who have reached sobriety find success by entering a fitness competition, which requires them to train and take on daily exercise. In return, their bodies naturally decrease in anxiety due to the increased exercise. This competitive exercise maintains accountability and structure for these individuals, as they decide to redirect their energy and focus.

Yoga…More Than Exercise

If you want an exercise routine that is more than just physical fitness, but a way to stimulate your mind and transform your lifestyle, yoga is one of the most popular avenues taken by those who have recently moved into sobriety. Yoga is a lifestyle that intertwines the mind and body, designed to eliminate unwanted feelings and stress such as anxiety. Chants and a calming atmosphere are found throughout yoga studios and instruction. With stretching at the core of the physical routine, anxiety is eliminated from the muscles as your body relaxes.

Vent Your Frustrations

Do you need to get your anxieties out but not sure who to speak to? If you find that you get the biggest anxiety release from interaction, then you should consider meeting with a therapist regularly as a safe place to discuss your anxieties and concerns. Having an outlet to place your anxieties allow you to discuss them and get a different perception on the situation. No matter how small the anxiety may be, it is important to have it released so that you can maintain your sobriety and not revert to old habits in an attempt to suppress the anxiety. You can choose from the following methods of therapy:

• Clinical therapist
• Support group
• Individual Confidant

Clinical therapists are licensed and educated to assist those going through sobriety and give them a secure outlet for release. If you would like to speak to a professional individual regarding your anxieties and current sobriety, this may be your best option.

Some may find that a larger group is more suitable and welcoming. Support groups for those in recovery can be found in your community, and they have weekly meetings designed to keep you accountable and provide a consistent resource for any anxiety you may be experiencing.

Maybe you have a friend or family member that you are very close with and offers a judgment-free zone. If you are comfortable reaching out to this person regarding your anxiety in sobriety, then use them as a vent, a secure outlet where you can expel your anxiety safely after entering sobriety.

Find Solace In Meditation

Does anxiety have your mind racing constantly? If so, calm your mind and your anxieties with meditation practices. While it appears to be a very calm and easy practice, it takes concentration and discipline to mentally remove the anxiety from your mind and give you a time period where you can calm yourself, reflect on situations, and give you the stability that you need to keep moving forward in recovery. Meditation takes many forms and depends on the person. You can have background noise if you choose, or silence and the location for meditation is completely up to you. Find a place that is your calm place and use it for meditation. Use this practice several times a week to minimize your anxiety.

Conclusion

Anxiety is an obstacle that many former addicts find when they enter sobriety. One of the biggest achievements is to successfully manage anxiety while achieving recovery. Anxiety is manageable without reverting to the addiction, and with the right fit for you, it can be managed very easily. If you are fighting with anxiety and looking for the right option, review this list and consider which appeals to your personality. Try all of them until you find the right way to slay your anxiety and achieve recovery. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, reach out to us. At Creo Spero, we want to be with you every step of the way to path your new path sobriety. Contact us today.