It’s the beginning of 2019 – and it’s the perfect time to take stock of some unhealthy habits that may be harmful to your overall health and your recovery. Of course, you know you best – so take a few minutes to jot down some things that may be hindering your recovery progress. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Smoking. Yes, this is easier said than done but quitting smoking (including e-cigarettes) is really well worth the effort! For one, studies have found that quitting smoking during addiction recovery can increase your chances of lasting sobriety. Plus, it will it lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and issues like emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
• Complaining. The start of 2019 may be the time to give yourself a complaining detox. While complaining admittedly feels good – it even triggers your brain into thinking your fixing something – it actually does more harm in the long run. This is because it trains your brain to look for negative patterns in life instead of looking for the positive.
• Negative self-talk. Addiction can take a toll on your self-confidence and cause a range of negative emotions including guilt and shame. Do your best this year to stop any negative self-talk – calling yourself a failure, for example, or getting down on yourself for not being where you “should” be in life. Instead, remind yourself that recovery is about self-improvement and discovering your strengths and positive traits.
• Comparing yourself to others. Everyone’s recovery is different and will depend on a variety of factors including type of addiction, years of abuse, past traumas, co-occurring mental illnesses and support. Remind yourself of that whenever you start to feel down (then go do something that helps you remember all the amazing strides you’ve made).
• Not sleeping. Sleep isn’t a luxury – it’s a priority. Skimping on sleep can wear your body down, weaken your immune system and increase stress and anxiety. On the contrary, doing your best to practice good sleep hygiene – including shutting down those smartphones – can help provide the physical and mental rest you need for recovery.

A New Year at Segue For more information about how our addiction recovery services can help you or someone you love care for your physical, spiritual and emotional health in order to be your best sober self, contact a Segue Recovery Specialist today: 833-485-0789.