Twenty Something Contributed ContentMany of us will fall into addiction throughout our lives, whether it is to dull the pain of our grief or in a misguided attempt to self-medicate our mental health issues, but substance use is ultimately not good for our physical or mental health, so a point will come when we need to work on overcoming those addictions. The thing is, finding the energy to do the work that will see us out of addiction often feels impossible.
If this sounds all-too-familiar, here are a few things you can do to find that energy you need right now:
Rehab from the Comfort of Your Home
Let’s start with something modern and flexible, like a virtual IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program). Think of it as rehab without the awkward group hugs or having to sit in a cold, sterile room. You can get the support you need to get sober from the comfort of your couch—yes, even in your sweats with your dog snoozing by your side. Virtual IOPs offer therapy, counseling, and group sessions to help you build the skills to fight addiction, but you can still keep living your life. So, if you’re juggling work, family, this one’s for you.
Build a Support Squad
You know that feeling when you’ve had just enough coffee and you feel like you can take on the world? Yeah, now imagine feeling like that but with actual human support behind you. Friends, family, and even professionals can be part of your ‘Addiction Avengers’—the people who’ve got your back when things get tough. Lean on them when you need to vent, cry, or just scream into the void. They’ll help remind you that there’s light at the end of the tunnel.
Rediscover Your Thing—You Know, That Thing You Used to Love
Before addiction sneaked in like an uninvited party guest, you probably had hobbies, interests, and passions, right? Maybe you were into painting, playing guitar, running marathons, or—heck—solving Rubik’s cubes. Whatever it was, it’s time to reclaim it. Finding something you love (that isn’t self-destructive) can be a great way to refocus your energy. Plus, hobbies are way cooler when they don’t come with a hangover or bad choices attached.
Move Your Body, Seriously—It’s a Game-Changer
No, you don’t have to start training for a triathlon, but moving your body is one of the best ways to release those feel-good chemicals that addiction tries to hijack. It could be yoga, a walk in the park, or even a dance party in your living room (bonus points if you bust out some old-school moves). Exercise not only gives you a healthy energy boost, but it can also take your mind off cravings. And who knows, you might just end up enjoying it. Stranger things have happened!
Focus on Tiny Wins (Like, Really Tiny)
No one wakes up one day, throws their addiction in the trash, and says, “Welp, that’s over.” Recovery is made up of a million tiny victories—choosing to show up for yourself just a little more every day. Whether it’s opting for therapy, getting outside, or saying “no” to that trigger, each small win adds up. Celebrate them like you’ve just won the lottery because in a way, you kind of have.