Jan 3, 2026 | Alcoholism, drinking
You have worked so hard to get clean, but staying clean can be a challenge in itself. In the short-term and long-term future, you will come across different triggers, events, or emotions that may make you want to pick up bad habits again. While it may be a struggle, it is possible to make it through while staying clean. There are different steps you can take to help keep yourself from relapsing.
How-to Keep Yourself From Relapsing: Prevention Steps
Be Aware of Triggers
Everyone will have different things that trigger them, but there are some triggers that are more common than others. It is important to know these in order to help keep yourself from relapsing. First, being around old friends who are still using drugs or alcohol and have no interest in getting sober can be a relapse trigger. It is difficult to keep all of your old life the same without falling into the same bad patterns too. Certain locations that you used to engage in substance abuse can also be a trigger.
Other common triggers include isolation, relationship issues, uncomfortable emotions like feeling hungry, lonely, or tired. Some people are overconfident in themselves, thinking that they do not have a problem, or that the issues are all behind them. This overconfidence can actually create the perfect scenario for relapse.
Stages of Relapse
One of the best ways to keep yourself from relapsing is to understand the stages of relapse. This way you can already know what to be mindful of. Relapse is usually a gradual process, and can even start months before the actual relapse event occurs. The different stages of relapse are emotional, mental, and physical.
Emotional Relapse
With emotional relapse, you’re not actually thinking about using. However, your emotions and behaviors can set you up for a potential relapse. Some of the signs include anxiety, mood swings, not asking for help or going to meetings, anger, and isolation. Change your behavior and practice self-care. With emotional relapse, it is the easiest to get back on the right path and stop yourself from actually relapsing.
Mental Relapse
Mental relapse is when part of you wants to start using again, and the other part does not. You are being pulled two different ways. Some signs of this include lying, hanging out with your old friends and thinking about people and places in your past. It also includes glamorizing your past use and even fantasizing about using again.
If you are struggling with mental relapse, talk to someone and tell them what you are going through and thinking about relapsing. This could be a friend or even a support group. Urges won’t last for too long, but just make sure to distract yourself by going on a walk, or calling someone to chat. Remember to take each day at a time so that the process does not feel so overwhelming.
Physical Relapse
Lastly, the best thing is to try and catch yourself from relapsing before you get to the physical relapse point. Once you start thinking about relapse, it does not take long to get to physical relapse. This is when you actually physically relapse again. So, pay attention and react to the warning signs so that you do not make it to this point. Get help before it is too late.
Jul 6, 2025 | drinking, DUI & DWI
Addiction is not just something which affects adults. In fact, youth addiction is a serious problem as well. As such, it’s important for parents to know what they can do to help their kids avoid these substances, or help them get clean…
Youth Addiction: Offering Help
Addiction factors
There’s a lot of factors behind youth addiction. For instance, it could be a result of things such as social influences. Their friends may try and convince them to take these substances because it’s “cool” or “adult-like.” This sort of peer pressure causes many youths to go overboard and end up with an addiction.
However, psychological factors can also contribute to an addiction. If a kid is struggling with something like depression, then they may turn to drugs to try and cope. Other times, it may even be family members or friends whose behavior encourages kids to use these drugs and become addicted because they think it’s okay to do so.
Abused substances
Like with the factors, there’s also many different substances which are involved in youth addiction. Alcohol is probably to most common kind. This is because it’s relatively easier for younger people to get their hands on it. Plus, with how it’s more accepted in adult society, kids don’t fully understand just how dangerous it can be.
In recent times, many younger people have also been developing addictions to opioids. In particular, stimulants and sedatives have been growing in popularity. The former is used mainly by students to try and improve their study and test-taking abilities. The latter is more used in a party context to help them relax, and is frequently taken with alcohol, which is a very dangerous combination.
Providing help
The best way to curb youth addiction is for parents to talk to their kids. Sitting down with them and letting them know about the dangerous is key. Many times, kids simply just don’t know how dangerous or addictive these substances are. By informing them, you can better encourage them to make smarter decisions.
At the same time, parents should also show that they still love and support their kids if they are struggling with an addiction. Odds are, they already feel like they have let you down. By showing you are willing to support them getting clean, this can help encourage them to get the treatment they need.
Apr 27, 2025 | Alcoholism, drinking
If you are wondering if your partner is abusing alcohol, you can look for signs and clues from how they live their lives and interact with others. If you do think they are drinking too much, hopefully, you can get them the help that they need. One clue that they might be an alcoholic is if their social life revolves around alcohol. Another sign to look for is if they are cranky and irritable when they don’t drink. Another warning sign is people who don’t show outward signs of drunkenness even when they’ve had enough drinks to be intoxicated. And finally, if drinking is causing problems in their life it’s a clear red flag. All of these can be clues that your partner is drinking too heavily. Hopefully, you can provide a support system for them to get the help they need to get sober.
Signs That Your Partner is Abusing Alcohol: Signs and Symptoms of a Problem
Their Social Life Revolves Around Alcohol
One indication that your partner is abusing alcohol is that their entire social life revolves around it. If every date involves drinking and your weekends are filled with barhopping, it could be a red flag. Additionally, if they wind up drinking even when they don’t plan on it, it can be worrisome. For example, if your partner says they won’t drink but then give in and order something when they see others drinking, it could mean that they have a problem with resisting alcohol. While it’s fine to meet friends for drinks or order a fancy wine while out to dinner, if you’re entire social calendar revolves around alcohol, it’s a problem.
They Are Irritable When They Don’t Drink
Another sign that your partner is abusing alcohol is if they are irritable when they don’t drink. Excessive drinking can change the way your brain functions. It makes it so that your brain can no longer function normally without the alcohol. When you take that alcohol away, it can cause crankiness and irritability as your brain and body adjust to the absence of alcohol. This is one minor symptom of withdrawal. If your partner suffers from this or any other withdrawal symptom, it’s an indication that their body is too dependent on alcohol.
They Hold Their Liquor Too Well
It might be a sign that your partner is abusing alcohol if they hold their liquor too well. People who don’t show outward signs of drunkenness when they are intoxicated have a higher tolerance. But you can only get a higher tolerance for alcohol by drinking larger and larger quantities over time. While some people take pride in how much alcohol they’re able to handle, it can be a warning sign of an alcohol dependency problem.
Drinking Is Causing Problems in Their Life
One final sign that your partner is abusing alcohol is if drinking is causing problems in their life. Excessive drinking can lead to issues with family members and friends, partners, and even work. If they’re having trouble keeping up with personal relationships it can be a warning sign. Additionally, if they’re having issues with coming in late or hungover to work, it’s a definite red flag. Their family might be aware of any past drinking issues and be quick to get concerned if they’re drinking again. Take your cues from family members and long-time friends of your partner. If they seem concerned about the drinking, you should start analyzing your partner’s behavior for signs of alcoholism.
Unfortunately, many people are adept at hiding intense alcohol problems. However, there are signs that your partner is abusing alcohol if you look closely. Recognize if their entire social calendar revolves around drinking. Also, take note if they seem irritable when they abstain from alcohol because this might mean they are dependent. Furthermore, if they hold their liquor well and it’s difficult to tell when they are drunk even after many drinks, it can be a sign that they are drinking too much. And finally, if they’re having issues with family, friends, or their work it’s time to take a closer look. Hopefully, if you see these signs you can get your partner the help they need to get sober.
Feb 2, 2025 | Divorce, drinking
A bad habit can always be difficult to break However, breaking bad habits can often have a wonderful impact on your life, and your relationships. Take, for example, alcoholism and an intimate relationship. In many cases, serious alcohol abuse can cause relationship damage. Therefore, if you’re finding yourself in this situation, you’re likely looking for ways to save your relationship, your health, and manage your drinking. So, we’re going to focus on just that…
Alcoholism and Relationship Damage: Managing your Habit
Acknowledging the issue
The first step you can take towards repairing relationship damage due to alcohol is to acknowledge a problem, and where it starts. If you, and/or your partner, has acknowledged that alcohol is causing an issue in your relationship— it might be time to make a change. Ultimately, you have to decide what alcohol is worth to you. In other words, is your relationship more important to you than having a few drinks on the weekend? If it is, then maybe you should consider doing one of the following things…
Go alcohol-free for a period
Alcohol is bringing harm to the things you hold near and dear. Therefore, going without it for a while might help you prioritize. Not to mention, taking time away from alcohol can help you lose weight, save money, avoid nasty hangovers, and avoid relationship damage. If quitting cold turkey seems daunting to you, cut back bit by bit. Maybe start by going on a date with your significant other, and skipping that glass of wine. Or, do yoga at the end of a day to reduce stress instead of reaching for a cold one. By making this step, you’re showing your partner that you’re serious about making a change.
Have a conversation
No one starts drinking really heavily for no reason at all. Whether you’re stressed, anxious, depressed, angry, or so forth— there’s some reason that you aren’t stopping. So, take some time to talk it out. The person you’re with is supposed to be there for you and to listen when you need a shoulder to lean on, use that. It’s never a good time to talk about things when you’re under the influence. Typically, when drunk, it’s hard to say what you mean, and it’s easy for tempers to flare. So, using this period of time to talk with one another about your needs and wants might be extremely therapeutic.
Find a new hobby, maybe even together
Drinking is a vice, so replace it. Everyone has a method for relieving stress, and yours just so happens to be drinking. Now that you want to replace alcohol, consider finding a hobby for the two of you together. By doing something together, you have something to talk about, bond over, and improve on together. When you’re in a rut, taking action on something together can make a big difference in how you feel. Not to mention, it can help to rebuild a bit of your relationship that was lost…
Jan 2, 2025 | drinking, Drinking Smart
Knowing your limit is so important if you are out drinking with friends. Knowing when to stop will help you avoid the negative consequences of heavy drinking. Some drinkers can know when they’ve hit their limit just by the sensation of their body. Others use alcohol charts to help them decide when enough is enough. You can also perform field sobriety tests on yourself, or have a friend do them with you. And finally, you can purchase a breathalyzer as well to measure the alcohol content in your system. Drinking responsibly will help you avoid the dangers of over-indulging like health issues, hangovers, or driving accidents.
Knowing Your Limit: How to Know When to Quit Drinking
Feeling Drunk
Knowing your limit comes easier the longer you’ve been drinking. If you are an infrequent drinker, or if you’ve recently started drinking, it can be hard to know when to stop. Many people think that stopping when you’re “buzzed” is a good idea. This is when you reach the state of intoxication where you feel relaxed, giggly, happy, or your muscles feel a little looser. The room shouldn’t be spinning and you should not be sick to your stomach. Stopping when you are buzzed will usually prevent you from having an extreme hangover. However, you should never drive while buzzed.
Alcohol Chart
Knowing your limit can be hard, so some people rely on alcohol charts to help them know when enough is enough. An alcohol chart can show you how many drinks per hour somebody of your weight should stick to. However, there can be a lot of room for error with these. A lot depends on your body type, your drinking history, your metabolism, and how much food you’ve had in the day.
Field Sobriety Tests
Trying to do some field sobriety tests can help you with knowing your limit as well. These are the types of tests that cops use when they pull people over who they suspect of drinking and driving. You can try balancing on one leg or walking a straight line forwards and backward. Have a friend perform the tests on you to tell you how you’ve done. If you are having trouble completing the tasks, it’s probably time to stop drinking.
BAC
Finally, a breathalyzer can help you with knowing your limit too. A breathalyzer tests the BAC or blood-alcohol content in your breath when you breathe into a tube. However, like the drinking charts, there is a lot of room for error. There are many different qualities of at-home breathalyzers, so you can never know how reliable yours is. If you are planning to use one to see if you are sober enough to drive, you can blow a different number for a cop and get a DUI. Theirs are much more sensitive and might register more clearly. If you want to drive, it’s best not to drink at all.
Knowing your limit with drinking is important to help you have a good time without the aftermath of hangovers, health issues, or DWI’s. Stopping when you feel buzzed is usually a good rule of thumb when drinking. However, it’s never safe to drive in this condition. If you want to use a chart, it can be a helpful baseline to show you a proper amount to drink. Field sobriety tests can help you determine if it’s time to stop as well. And finally, a breathalyzer should give you an idea of how intoxicated you are, but should never be depended on for driving. Hopefully, you’ll be able to find your drinking limit and enjoy a night out with friends without things getting out of hand.
Sep 22, 2024 | Alcoholism, drinking
Getting healthy while in recovery is a great idea as long as you have your doctor’s approval. You don’t want to strain your body with too much change at once. However, if you’ve been cleared for exercise and a diet change, it’s a great way to repair some of the damage that drinking can cause. Keep it gradual though. Slow and steady is the safest way to make any lifestyle changes. Get plenty of exercise, especially heart-healthy exercise like cardio. In addition, it’s a great idea to clean up your diet and aim for whole foods with as few additives as possible. Getting enough sleep is incredibly important for your overall health. And finally, don’t skip your mental health. Recovery is hard, so make sure to take care of yourself emotionally as well. Hopefully, you can be well on your way to a cleaner life. Your body will thank you!
Getting Healthy While in Recovery: Slow and Steady
Exercise
Exercise is very important for getting healthy while in recovery. Drinking can be very hard on your organs, especially your heart. Heart-healthy exercise like cardio can help repair some of this damage. Pairing cardio with strength training is a great way to increase your strength and tone your body. Take things slowly at first, and speak to a doctor before you attempt exercise if it’s been a while.
Eating Healthy
Eating healthy is another important factor for getting healthy while in recovery. Drinking can add on the pounds, as alcohol is chock full of empty calories, carbs, and sugar. If you’re looking to trim down while in recovery, aim for whole foods. Load up on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Sleep
Another important factor for getting healthy while in recovery that often gets overlooked is sleep. Sleep is incredibly important for your overall well-being. Long-term alcohol abuse can cause sleep issues, so you might be having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Try to set the stage for good sleep by investing in room-darkening curtains, a sound machine, and comfortable sheets. Listen to calming music, take a warm bath, or inhale calming lavender before bed. And cut the screen time off within the last hour before you go to sleep.
Mental Health
Finally, your mental health can’t be ignored when getting healthy while in recovery. Detox and recovery are incredibly hard and stressful. You might be getting some therapy as part of a detox program. However, once you leave a rehab facility, it’s up to you to continue this. A therapist can help you grapple with stress and set you up for successful goal-setting. Make sure to set aside time in your schedule for taking care of your mental health. Perhaps that means booking a session with your therapist, making time for coffee with a friend, or just sitting outside for a little peace and quiet.
Getting healthy while in recovery is a great idea to change your entire life. You’re already making such a great decision for your health by cutting out substances. You might as well take this opportunity to invest in your overall health. If a doctor has given the okay for you to exercise, start with some gradual activities and slowly build up. Aim to eat cleanly by focusing on lots of fruits and veggies. Set yourself up for a successful night of sleep each night, and aim to get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep overall. And finally, make sure to focus on your mental health while you take care of your physical health. You are well on your way to repairing many of the negative effects of long-term substance abuse and living a cleaner, happier life.
