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Your Guide to Mental Wellness During Recovery

Lasting Sobriety Starts with Good Mental Health

The road to recovery is long and difficult, but paying attention to your mental health during this time is essential. Sobriety is more than just abstaining from drugs and alcohol–it’s about taking care of your whole self, including your mind. Here’s what you need to know.

Top Reasons Mental Wellness is Important for Recovery

As you might expect, there are plenty of reasons why maintaining good mental health is key to lasting sobriety. Here are just a few:

It Can Help Prevent Relapse

You’re more likely to relapse if you’re not in a good place mentally. You may be more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol to cope when you’re feeling down. So, finding healthy ways to deal with your emotions is essential.

It Can Improve Your Overall Health

Your mental health is closely linked to your physical health. If you’re not taking care of your mental health, it can hurt your physical health and vice versa.

It Can Help You Build a Strong Support System

Good mental health will help you build and maintain strong relationships with your loved ones and support system. These relationships are crucial to your recovery.

It Can Make Treatment More Effective

Addiction treatment may be less effective if you struggle with your mental health. Addressing any mental health issues can help you focus on your treatment and recovery process.

What are Common Co-Occurring Conditions?

It’s not uncommon for people with substance use disorders to also have mental health disorders, also known as co-occurring conditions. Some of the most common co-occurring conditions include:

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are characterized by feelings of anxiety, fear, and unease. These disorders can make it difficult to cope with everyday life.

Depressive Disorders

Depressive disorders often result in feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness. These disorders can make it difficult to function in day-to-day life.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD is a condition characterized by obsessions (recurrent, unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or rituals).

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a condition that causes extreme mood changes. Symptoms include swings from depression to mania.

How to Improve Your Mental Well-Being in Recovery

There are many things you can do to improve your mental well-being. Here are just a few:

Get Help if You Need It

If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t be afraid to seek help. Many resources are available, including therapy, support groups, and medication.

Talk to Your Loved Ones

Your loved ones can be a great source of support. Talk to them about your recovery journey and how they can help you.

Pay Attention to Your Warning Signs

Know your warning signs and triggers, and make a plan for what to do if you start to feel them.

Get Regular Health Checkups

In addition to seeing your therapist or counselor regularly, be sure to see your doctor for regular checkups. Doing so will help you catch any physical health issues affecting your mental health.

Find Healthy Coping Mechanisms

It’s essential to find healthy ways to cope with your emotions. Some healthy coping mechanisms include exercise, journaling, and meditation.

Final Thoughts

Mental health is so vital for recovery. If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t be afraid to seek help. There are many resources available to you. Talk to your loved ones, find healthy coping mechanisms, and get your needed help. You can do this!

At Cedar Oaks Wellness Center, we understand how important mental health is for recovery. We offer a variety of resources to help you on your journey, including therapy, support groups, and more. Contact us today to get started.

Keeping You Informed

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