Being alone is never easy, and dealing with loneliness while in recovery can be a really hard thing to do. For so long have us addicts and alcoholics learned to drink or use to deal with our feelings, such as loneliness. What are we supposed to do once we know that we can no longer use drugs and alcohol as a crutch anymore? We’ve got to sit and actually deal with our feelings and emotions; easier said than done.

Dealing With Loneliness: H.A.L.T.

Hungry

Angry

Lonely

Tired

I’m sure this rings a bell to many people who are in recovery or who has ever been to a drug treatment center. This is a big sign that shows that you need to talk to someone, such as your sponsor or sober support, immediately. Dealing with loneliness can be a major trigger for some people who are newly sober. Even people with long term sobriety still struggling with dealing with loneliness. But here’s the catch: we’re never truly alone. You’ve got a higher power of your own understanding. If you don’t have that, then you have your sponsor or sober supports, friends, and family. There’s always someone you can reach out to, even professional help. There is no need to drown your sorrows with alcohol or drugs when you can just as easily get up and better yourself.

Ways For Dealing With Loneliness

• Get up and talk to someone
• Ask for help, it’s not that hard
• Pray or meditate
• Work on loving yourself so you’ll be able to love someone else
• Work the 12 steps
• Call your sponsor and sober supports
• Go out and help someone else
• Be grateful for what you’ve got
• Get a plant or a pet
• Keep moving forward and realize that things will get better

I, myself, have joked around, saying that I will end up as a “lonely cat lady.” But the feeling of loneliness is painful and it did almost take me back out after a year sober. But I did what I was told and asked for help; I worked on myself; I helped other people; and I’m still sober today. Recovery is the greatest thing I’ve ever done for myself and my family, therefore there is absolutely NOTHING that I will give it up for: not even loneliness. You can and will make it through this. If you need to talk or need help, call Recovery Society today and keep on the right path (866) 323-6590.