Combatting loneliness in addiction recovery
One distinct feature of many mental health illnesses is self-isolation.
Addiction – whether you are struggling with substance abuse or in recovery – can cause feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Many who need help are reluctant to seek help because they are concerned about what people might think about them or treat them during their recovery process.
You may fear feelings of isolation. But it is important to remember that you are not alone.
There are so many ways that you can avoid loneliness, and those around you will want to support you rather than isolate you.
Here at the executive rehab guide, we are here to help you, whatever your situation.
If you, or someone you love is struggling with addiction, then call us today for free and confidential advice.
What is loneliness?
Loneliness feels very similar to sadness and unhappiness, but it is also accompanied with a feeling of disconnection.
Even when surrounded by others, you may feel disconnected, as if you are going unheard or ignored.
Though loneliness isn’t depression, the two can often come hand-in-hand.
Using alcohol to cope with loneliness
When an individual is struggling with loneliness, they can often turn to alcohol or drugs as a way of relieving their feelings of loneliness temporarily.
Using alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism can have harmful effects, and lead to long-term substance abuse and addiction. Learn more about mental illness and addiction.
Whether you are in the early stages of addiction, or feeling isolated during your alcohol recovery, there are many ways to combat loneliness without alcohol.
Get some daily fresh air and sun
Getting your daily dose of vitamin D is very important, as is getting some fresh air and exercise each day.
Though this may seem simple advice, there are so many benefits to getting out during the day.
More about how to stay sober after rehab.
Daylight and fresh air can have a positive effect on:
- Your mental health
- You will sleep better
- Can aid weight loss
- Raise your mood
- Develops bone density
- Regulates blood pressure
Focus on your relationships
If you are feeling lonely, just remember that there are so many people who want to support you.
Remember that there are people around you who can help. Reach out and talk to them.
It can also be helpful to consider your group of friends and even your family – are they including you? Are they encouraging toxic behaviours? Are they genuine?
If you are concerned that your relationships are not as deep or supportive as you’d like, reach out to them to deepen your connection with them, or consider finding friends that will be there to support you.
How to help your family or friend.
Organise events and join clubs
This can be a hard first step if you are struggling with loneliness, but actively organising events or meet-ups can be a new way to make new friends, deepen connections and spend time doing what interests you most too. More.
Make an effort to leave the house and go out often
As well as getting out for some fresh air each day, you can use your time to try something new. More.
You can form positive distractions from cravings and loneliness by joining community events, fitness classes, or doing what interests you most.
This will also help to occupy you and break up the monotony of your daily routine.
Volunteer
Joining community events can also mean volunteering. Volunteering means that you can be in consistent contact with others.
Regularly interacting with others can help develop a healthy support system. You will be able to create connections with others which can fight the feelings of loneliness you may be experiencing.
When you feel ready, you will be able to steadily return to work. Read more here.
We are here to listen
Our friendly and professional team are here to provide support, so that whatever you are going through, we are here to listen.
Call us today on 0808 1150 446.
Learn more:
- How does isolation impact mental health?
- NHS: Get help with loneliness
- Coping mechanisms to try if you are feeling lonely
- Signs and symptoms of chronic loneliness
Last Updated on January 11, 2022 by Alison
