Deciding to get sober from any substance is a major step in the right direction. It is not a decision that a lot of people come to easily, and there are typically several bumps in the road that inevitably lead people to this choice eventually, but they have to want it for themselves. Sobriety can be challenging, and it is very common for people considering getting sober to wonder what that will look like and how they will get there. The road to recovery is not easy, but it is worth the work, and YOU are worth it.
What is Sobriety?
Sobriety is the condition of not having any measurable levels or effects from alcohol or drugs. It is the state of being completely sober. Sobriety can be a fixed-term goal, like staying sober for Dry January, or a lifelong goal of living free from all substances. Sobriety can also be defined as refraining from alcohol or mind-altering substance use, which suggests sustained discontinuance. Some definitions of sobriety call for complete lifelong abstinence, while others focus on developing coping mechanisms that can reduce harm with the understanding that setbacks are common and can happen.
How Do You Get Sober?
There are various reasons why people abuse drugs and alcohol; therefore, many different reasons people choose to get sober. It is so important to know that for whatever reason you decide to get sober, it is possible and a manageable long-term goal with the right treatment and maintenance.
- Recognize That You Need Help – One of the most challenging aspects of getting sober is admitting you have a problem and that change is needed. You must consider how drugs and/or alcohol have negatively impacted your life.
- Ask for Help – Deciding you need help does not mean you have to do it alone. Talk to your family and friends about what is going on, as they can be your support system throughout your recovery journey. You can also speak with your doctor, who might be able to refer you to a treatment center that can help get you where you need to be.
- Find the Right Program for You – Everyone’s needs are different, and there are many treatment options based on your individual needs, which will probably include detox first and foremost. Whether inpatient or residential treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient treatment, or sober living, you can find the right fit to start your recovery journey[1].
What to Expect When You Get Sober?
Addiction is a life-long disease, and staying sober is not easy, especially in the first few months of early sobriety. The good news is it only takes one day to get sober. Maintaining that sobriety is on a day-to-day basis. Once you start the detox process, you should typically start to feel physically better between five to seven days as all substances are flushed out of your system. Most treatment programs offer 30, 60, and 90-day programs where you will do therapy to understand the underlying causes of your addiction, and you are given tools to help you navigate your sobriety, which you don’t have to do alone. Much like deciding what type of program is best for you, you will also decide (usually with the help of your therapist) how long you should stay in treatment. After 30 days, some people realize they need or WANT to stay longer as they might feel like they haven’t truly gotten their footing after just 30 days.
After the first month of sobriety, you should start to feel better on a daily basis as your withdrawal period ends. During this phase of sobriety, you could experience symptoms such as:
- Anxiety and irritability
- Sadness and loss of interest in things
- Chronic fatigue
- Short-term memory loss
- Poor focus and concentration
- Sleeping problems
- Low libido
- Physical discomfort
- Cravings[2]
These feelings are temporary and get less and less over time. This could be why most people choose to stay in treatment for longer than 30 days, so they can get past the uncomfortable feelings and focus on learning the tools they need to continue their sobriety. Again, it is important to remember that each person’s recovery journey is different, and you never want to compare your situation to someone else’s.
While it does take just one day to get sober, maintaining that sobriety is a daily task. No timeline is set in stone for sobriety, as it is often a lifelong process. For each person, staying sober requires understanding why you were using in the first place, knowing your triggers, and learning how to avoid falling into a pattern of using again. All of these things are addressed throughout treatment. Getting sober can be physically and emotionally uncomfortable, and sobriety can be challenging, but the long-term benefits are well worth the hardship.
A men’s rehab program can be an excellent option for individuals facing challenges related to substance abuse or mental health problems. If you or a loved one find yourselves grappling with these issues, seeking specialized care in the form of men’s substance abuse treatment can be a beneficial step towards recovery. These programs are specifically tailored to address the unique needs and experiences of men, recognizing that gender can play a significant role in how substance abuse and mental health concerns manifest.
Men’s substance abuse treatment programs offer a supportive environment where men can openly discuss their struggles and work towards healing. These programs often incorporate therapies and approaches that resonate with men, taking into consideration their communication styles, emotional expressions, and personal experiences. The aim is to create a space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their stories and building connections with others who are on a similar journey.
The curriculum of a men’s rehab typically integrates various therapeutic modalities, which may include individual counseling, group therapy sessions, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and holistic practices such as mindfulness and meditation. By combining these elements, men can develop coping strategies, communication skills, and emotional regulation techniques that are relevant to their specific circumstances.
Moreover, men’s substance abuse treatment programs acknowledge the societal pressures and expectations that men often face, which can contribute to the development of substance abuse issues. These programs may explore topics like masculinity, relationships, and identity, helping participants to understand how these factors intertwine with their struggles and how to navigate them in a healthy way.
Ultimately, a men’s rehab offers a safe and non-judgmental space where men can embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and recovery. If you or a loved one are considering seeking help for substance abuse or mental health challenges, exploring a men’s substance abuse treatment program could provide the tailored support needed to overcome these obstacles and lead a more fulfilling life.
If You or a Loved One Are Struggling, Call Recovery Bay Now
A men’s rehab can work well for many people if you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues. Moreover, it allows you to pursue the type of addiction treatment best suited to your needs. As a gender-specific treatment program, you also don’t have to worry about distraction.
Learn more about how our men’s rehab program in Panama City, FL, can provide you with exceptional services by calling our treatment team today.
Resources:
[1] How to Get Sober and What to Expect: Very Well Health https://www.verywellhealth.com/sobriety-5248359
[2] What Does It Feel Like to Get Sober? Good RX Health https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/substance-use-disorder/getting-sober