Lifestyle Changes to Help You Stop Drinking

Recovering from alcohol addiction is not about just one thing. If only we could say, do this, and you’ll be fine. It’s not quite that simple, but the good news is that there are very specific and helpful lifestyle changes that can support you on your path to sobriety. The first important step is to seek alcohol addiction treatment. This will start with a safe, medically supervised detox program. The recovery journey that follows may involve rehab, therapy, support groups, a family safety net, and, for many, a faith community.  All of those things will support you as you make the necessary lifestyle changes when you want to stop drinking. If you follow some of the guidelines below, you’ll be well on your way to achieving overall wellness, avoiding relapse triggers, and pursuing a meaningful, joyful life without alcohol. To find out how 7 Summit Pathways can help you get started, call or reach out using our online form. 

Addiction Treatment and Aftercare 

Human beings are creatures of habit. Our daily routines quickly become normalized, even when they are unhealthy. To make significant changes, it helps greatly to be mindful in setting intentions and practicing those life skills that will increase the chances of achieving and maintaining a life of sobriety.  You have completed detox and have stopped drinking alcohol. You are in rehab or have recently completed rehab and are returning to what you’re hoping will be a sense of normal—a new normal.  Participating in an aftercare program can help you remember your motivations for sobriety. Most rehab facilities have aftercare programs that include group meetings and sober events and are an important part of successfully maintaining sobriety after discharge. 

How to Maintain Sobriety After Treatment 

Join a 12-step program. Even if your rehab treatment did not include one, 12-step programs could be a lifeline for those who want to maintain their post-rehab sobriety. People with a lived experience of addiction help one another achieve and maintain sobriety by walking the steps and supporting others. In group meetings, participants share experiences with complete honesty and support one another without judgment or criticism.  Set manageable goals. If you have an actionable and achievable plan each day, you will set yourself up for success. Success breeds success, and the accomplishment you feel when crossing things off your daily list is priceless. Don’t aim too high, too soon. Make sure your daily goals are within your grasp. These might include: 

• Walking a mile 

• Contacting an old friend you’ve lost touch with 
• Organizing a cabinet in your kitchen 
• Applying for a job 

Follow a schedule. Organize your day around the above-mentioned achievable goals. One of the best indicators of a successful recovery is starting early with a workable schedule. A calendar or list you can adhere to will help you avoid threats to your sobriety like boredom or stress.  Foster sober relationships. These relationships will sustain and support you in your sobriety. You may connect with people from your aftercare program, Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, or your job. The way you socialize will look different now, and so will your friend group.  Practice self-care. Living a sober life is all about self-care. Don’t forget to make room for specific care that honors you and the challenging task you have taken on. Treat yourself with a sense of reward for a job well done as you complete your daily, weekly, and monthly goals. 

7 Summit Pathways Can Help 

Substance abuse disorders such as alcoholism affect countless Americans every year. One in eight adults in the United States is addicted to alcohol. The resources are out there to help, but any professional substance abuse treatment program is only the first step. At 7 Summit Pathways, we stick with you. If you participate in our aftercare program, we can help you walk the post-rehab road and support you as you make changes to your lifestyle.  Let us guide you to better choices and a healthy life. Reach out today to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment program. Our compassionate staff is waiting to hear from you. Call us at or use our online contact form.