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How to Get Sober

Prashant Magar
Getting sober can be a big challenge for people. However, if one gets through the process and manages to recover from any sort of addiction, it would be a big achievement. Any substance which affects the state of being can have negative implications. This story provides some ways that may help one become sober.
It is important to understand the disastrous consequences of any sort of addiction, before opting for the steps to eradicate it. In fact, it may serve as a motivation to get over the obsession. The dependence on drugs or chemicals of any form, could lead to any one or a combination of the following losses in extreme cases.
  • Marital problems
  • Strained relationship with close friends, well wishers, and colleagues
  • Financial instability
  • Bad grades in case of students, and bad performance at work for adults
  • Reduced job opportunities in the future or reduced chances at getting higher education
  • Health problems
  • Loss of personal possessions
  • Loss of dignity, self-respect, and trust
Research studies have proved that people actually resist substance abuse. For instance, many people have accepted that they end up consuming more alcohol than they actually intended to. Often, one's behavior is in contrast to what one knows is right. It is this stage of 'pinching' conscience, that one can channel in their effort to become sober.
The following rehabilitating steps, if adhered to sincerely, might prove beneficial.
Creation of desire: As stated earlier, one needs to develop a strong sense of purpose. It should be the same as the determination to get top grades, or the burning desire to get into the college football team, winning a dance competition, or meeting one's work targets. It is necessary to get help on the issue because one needs to get better, and not because someone else coaxes you to do it.
Get hold of inspiration: One's inspiration could be a spiritual guru, a leader, or any social figure one looks up to. Get enrolled in a rehabilitation program. Seek assistance from people who can be trusted completely and can be discreet. Often, people who have completed the process successfully, are the best ones to consult for guidance and help.
Professional help: A professional therapy session or a course could address the root of the problem. If followed with dedication, it can help one get rid of the addiction. It would help assess the factors that led one into the habit and provide strong reasons, and support to avoid tempting situations. Many support organizations offer concessions or assistance, in case one is low on finances.
Create a sober environment: Inculcate positive habits and a lifestyle that will provide leverage towards one's goal. If family and friends too cease their habits like alcohol consumption or smoking, it could also be a reason for inspiration. Try to avoid friends or acquaintances, who are partners in one's addiction.
Avoid movies, programs, or hangouts that include any form of addiction, that one intends to avoid. For example, if one wants to stop drinking alcohol, avoid passing by places, where it is available. A vacation to a location like a tropical beach or simply decorating the house with fresh flowers, can be of genuine help.
Diet and Exercise: During rehabilitation, one's health is severely affected. A balanced and healthy diet can have a direct impact on a negative mood and can help reduce problems like irritation or uneasiness. Involving oneself in an outdoor sport or regular exercises serves two purposes. It keeps one's mind engaged on the task at hand, leaving no scope for the urge to go back to the addiction. It also aids by stimulating the secretion of 'feel good' hormones.
The fact that one starts to think of the ways to get rid of addictions, is a very good beginning. Following the aforementioned methods, might prove beneficial. However, it is only about following the right procedure and adhering to it with a strong willpower, so as to eradicate any sort of addictions completely.
Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for the advice of a mental health expert.