And worrying about what others may think if you return to use is outside of your control. You focus on you and the people who are supposed to be in your life will support you along the way. A large body of research exists examining—and proving—the efficacy of AA for sobriety. A 2011 study by Krentzman, Robinson, et al. sought to answer the question of why some people chose to continue going to meetings even after they achieved short-term sobriety.
It’s Time to Talk About Your Worries
One of the fears that may be haunting the newly recovered addict is the thought of having to face the wreckage that you may have created while using. You may dread talking to family members and loved ones who have dealt with the difficulties of loving an addict for years. It is natural to be scared when contemplating recovery; if you aren’t apprehensive, nervous, or downright petrified, it means that you don’t care.
Sobriety Fear #2: Everything will change.
If you’re having trouble staying sober, check your app and take a nice, long look at your WHY! Whether it is someone you love, your children or wife or husband, your parents or your freedom or something else—your WHY is the reason you stay sober today, tomorrow, and every day. Is your freedom what keeps you walking the sobriety line? If so, think about it the next time you consider using drugs or alcohol. Not using drugs or alcohol is almost like a “stay out of jail free” card. All you have to do is stay sober, and you stay free.
How a Growth Mindset Can Help You Beat Addiction
Immediate support can help by providing guidance to you in this difficult time. There are many others on there that also feel like giving up on a daily basis—maybe you could support them on your way and, giving and receiving support, will help you. Discreet, flexible, and 100% online—Workit 90 is a recovery program that fits your life, giving you the tools you need to cut back or quit drinking. One thing I’ve learned in my seven and a half years in recovery is that we all have fear, and we all overcome those fears, instead choosing recovery.
tips to express your feelings freely and clearly
- Without the distractions or negative behaviors that often accompany drinking, you can foster deeper connections with your family, friends, and loved ones.
- Worrying about it constantly will only strengthen your fears, and lessen your resolve to do anything.
- All people should know that help is available and possible for each and every person, regardless of how severe they think their disease is.
- There is no denying that upon getting sober you will see some of your friends leave.
I experienced this when I embarked on my journey of recovery. I was terrified because I didn’t know what fear of being sober was going to happen. I didn’t know if I could exist or if I would ever have fun again without substances.
In sobriety, however, progress becomes more consistent and visible. You can set clear goals and take steady, intentional steps toward achieving them. Sobriety allows you to reconnect with who you really are. Alcohol often masks insecurities or unresolved issues, and when you remove it, you’re able to confront your true feelings and desires. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of yourself, learn to embrace your strengths, and grow more confident in your authentic identity. Drinking can be an expensive habit—whether it’s at the bar or stocking up on bottles at home.
Along with these differences noted in people, we now introduce fear into the equation. All people have varying levels of fear and what really intimidates or scares them. Sometimes fear is the appropriate response but an overwhelming number of times, they are irrational fears created out of another existing fear. Being scared to get sober is a large trepidation that many blow way out of proportion for too long to count.