Tips for Seniors Moving on in Sobriety

Visit Seniors In Sobriety for the information and awareness that older adults need to regain control of their lives.

Alcoholism is a disease that robs you of everything you hold dear. It keeps you from your friends and family and, just as importantly, from yourself. But it is never too late to find your sober space and look forward to living your best life. If you’re a senior early in your recovery, keep reading for a few tips on how to maintain a forward trajectory and never look back.

Keep going to your meetings.

As an alcoholic, the support you receive is crucial in your recovery. No matter how long you’ve been sober, make a point to go to meetings regularly. Seniors in Sobriety’s list of senior-centric meetings can help you find your tribe. However, remember that you are not boxed into one type of meeting, and you can attend all ages functions at churches, treatment facilities, and other meeting locations.

Plan for the future.

When you are in the throes of your addiction, you may have faced depression, confusion, and other negative feelings. Some of this stems from a chemical reaction that your brain goes through, even as you detox. But feelings can also linger once you are sober if you have nothing to look forward to.

Make a point to plan for your future. You can do this by going back to school, changing jobs, or prioritizing your health. You might also start saving money for a new home. Although it’s a long process, you can save up a down payment – preferably at least 5% – although some lenders have no-down payment options, depending on the type of loan you qualify for and your preferred payment terms.

Avoid negative patterns.

As an alcoholic, you no doubt succumbed to many negative patterns in your lifetime. Footprints to Recovery notes that negative self-talk is one of these. Once you learn to identify and become aware of your behaviors, you can then take steps to change them. Another example of a negative pattern to avoid is going into your old “haunts.” While you may have sober friends that eat dinner at your favorite bar, it’s probably best to change your dining preference to something with far less temptation.

Exit toxic relationships.

Toxic relationships are those that make us feel less than the person we are. They may be verbally or physically abusive or you may be in a partnership with somebody with keen manipulation skills. Whatever type of toxicity you allowed yourself to live with, sobriety is the best time to walk away from this situation. Toxic relationships are harmful to both your physical and mental health.

Complete your steps.

There is a reason that the 12 steps have been around for so long. It’s because they work as a roadmap to sobriety. Even if you’ve already completed them once, don’t be afraid to go another round. Remember, you don’t always have to complete them in order, and you may bounce back and forth from one step to the next. If you are already familiar with them, find a sponsor to walk with you as you admit you are powerless, make amends to those you have harmed, and experience your spiritual awakening.

Alcoholism is not a disease contained exclusively to young, healthy men and women. There are an unfortunate number of seniors in their 50s, 60s, and beyond affected each day. But, you have resources, and there are plenty of ways that you can take control of your life now so that you can maintain your sobriety in the future.

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Article submitted by Teresa Greenhill

Teresa Greenhill – info@mentalhealthforseniors.com