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Grace Dowd

How to Overcome Substance Abuse

The use of substances can lead you down a path you never imagined for yourself. Often, the use of substances can turn into abuse.


Substance abuse is a vicious cycle. Your body and brain will start to crave that feeling of euphoria that you may feel after using a specific substance, but as soon as that feeling fades, you feel lower than you did before using it.


This means that you'll start using more and more just to feel that short-term happiness you're striving for, but you'll feel worse and worse when that feeling wears off.


Taking the step to admit and acknowledge that you have a problem and want to make a change isn't easy. And for that, you should be extremely proud of yourself.


This is how to overcome substance abuse.


Take Care of Yourself


You've probably heard the phrase, "You are what you eat" before. Taking care of yourself by making smart choices with what you're putting into your body can help you feel good from the inside out. A healthy, well-balanced diet can improve your overall mental health and wellness. Not only will you start feeling better internally, and you may also notice changes in your body or how your clothes fit, which can make you feel better about yourself. When you start feeling good naturally, you're less likely to turn to substances.


Move Your Body


Working out is great for your body, but it's also extremely important for your mind as well. Everyone has a mind-body connection. Working on your physical health can bring benefits not only to your body but also to your mind. Exercise naturally reduces stress. Exercise naturally reduces stress. Plus, when you exercise, endorphins—often called the body's 'feel-good' chemicals—can boost your mood.  Incorporating exercise or movement into your daily routine can also help you create and stick to a schedule. All it takes is moving your body for at least thirty minutes each day to start seeing the benefits.


Lean On Loved Ones


When struggling with substance use and abuse, it can be extremely difficult to reach out for help. But it's important to remember that your loved ones are there for you no matter what - through the good, the bad, and the ugly. Make sure you're surrounding yourself with your loved ones. It may be difficult, but you may have to cut out negative people who no longer serve you. The people who actually care about you and want what's best for you will help you get and stay clean.


Try New Hobbies


There are so many different activities and hobbies for you to try out. Another great way to overcome substance use and abuse is by keeping yourself busy. Find another hobby or activity that you're interested in. Take the time to research different activities that you can try out. You never know what you may be interested in or passionate about until you give it a try. Channel your energy into making yourself feel fulfilled and happy through a new hobby.


Seek Professional Help


Taking the step towards recovery isn't an easy one. That being said, it's also not impossible. There will be a lot of ups and downs along the way. There is nothing wrong with asking for help. A licensed mental health professional has experience with exactly what you’re going through. They can help you identify any triggers that are pushing you to use and some better ways to cope and manage those emotions moving forward. "While there are lifestyle changes you can make on your own, there’s no real replacement for additional support from someone trained to handle this. Reach out today to get started with trauma or depression therapy.



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