Choosing to go to rehab to recover from drug addiction or alcoholism is usually the easy part. The more challenging part is staying sober even when exposed to triggers. One way to do that is by being accountable. When one refuses to be responsible, they deny that there is a problem. Hence, finding a solution is harder. Everyone that has gone through this path will tell you that they have managed to stay sober by being accountable for their actions.
Why is Accountability Important?
Recovery starts when you accept that you need help and that the situation is out of control. That means doing whatever is necessary to change things. Accountability and honesty boost one’s self-esteem, something that will help you in recovery. It is only by being accountable that you learn to be honest. When in a recovery center, you are taught to stay accountable and be honest. It helps with your recovery. Find out more about recovery and the various ways you can get help. That being said, here are some of the ways you can stay accountable.
Choose an Accountability Partner
Most people choose accountability partners when they take on challenging tasks, as they need the motivation to keep going when things get complicated. The same applies when you are in recovery. Most of the time, it is necessary to choose someone who has gone through the same process as they can relate to what you are going through. An accountability partner is someone who will be ready to listen to you when you are spiraling and can help you stay sober when feeling triggered. They will also check in from time to time, monitoring your progress.
Inform Your Loved Ones About Your Sobriety
Be honest about your recovery with your loved ones. Opening up to them about your struggles can be tricky, but it is highly recommended. Most people choose to open up to their social media followers, and that is okay as well. Admitting to people that you have been going through something and are finding help is good. It is also harder to fall back to drugs and alcohol when you have opened up to people that you are working towards sobriety.
Participate in a Support Group
The most common support group people are aware of is Alcoholic Anonymous. Besides that, many other programs offer support to people dealing with addiction. Some of these programs either have daily or weekly meetings, and it is up to you to choose what works for you. Meeting with people going through the same experience motivates you and helps you stay accountable for your actions.
Be Honest
There is a lot of dishonesty when one is abusing substances or alcohol. It can be within oneself and towards loved ones as well. In recovery, one learns how to be honest with themselves about their relationship with substances. If someone asks you why you are not drinking, inform them of your sobriety. This helps you stay accountable. You will also feel proud of yourself for your efforts and how far you have come.
Understand Your Triggers
It is essential to understand your triggers as it helps you manage them. Triggers can be people, certain situations, or emotions. If you know something risks your sobriety, try your best to avoid it. When it comes to things you cannot avoid, like emotions, it is better to find healthy coping mechanisms like exercising, deep breaths, or finding a distraction.
Whether you are in a recovery center, have just finished treatment, or are trying to stay sober on your own, this can be a challenging experience. That is why you need to remain accountable for a successful recovery journey.