DrugRehab.com provides information regarding illicit and prescription drug
addiction, the various populations at risk for the disease, current statistics and trends, and
psychological disorders that often accompany addiction. You will also find information on spotting
the signs and symptoms of substance use and hotlines for immediate assistance.
Treatment for addiction takes many forms and depends on the needs of the individual.
In accordance with the American Society of Addiction Medicine, we offer information on
outcome-oriented treatment that adheres to an established continuum of care. In this section, you
will find information and resources related to evidence-based treatment models, counseling and
therapy and payment and insurance options.
Treatment for addiction takes many forms and depends on the needs of the
individual. In accordance with the American Society of Addiction Medicine, we offer
information on outcome-oriented treatment that adheres to an established continuum of
care. In this section, you will find information and resources related to evidence-based
treatment models, counseling and therapy and payment and insurance options.
The recovery process doesn't end after 90 days of treatment. The transition back to
life outside of rehab is fraught with the potential for relapse. Aftercare resources such as
12-step groups, sober living homes and support for family and friends promote a life rich with
rewarding relationships and meaning.
Our community offers unique perspectives on lifelong recovery and substance use
prevention, empowering others through stories of strength and courage. From people in active
recovery to advocates who have lost loved ones to the devastating disease of addiction, our
community understands the struggle and provides guidance born of personal experience.
Many people turn to alcohol during difficult times. They may frequent bars each evening to cope with stress at work. Or they may drink alone at home to numb physical or psychological pain caused by a traumatic event. Drinking helps some people relax and take their minds off of hectic circumstances.
But using alcohol to decompress can harm your health. Routine drinking can increase your tolerance to alcohol and lead to dependence or addiction. Alcoholism is a brain disease that affects 16 million Americans.
However, a number of healthy alternatives to drinking exist. These activities have physical and psychological benefits. They can reduce stress, improve concentration and boost mood. They can also keep you from drinking and experiencing its consequences.
Here are five tips for relaxing without alcohol.
1. Exercise
Research shows that exercising can reduce stress, improve cardiovascular health and make you feel happier. Exercise also decreases anxiety, depression and feelings of stress. Walking around your neighborhood or running through a park are simple ways to decompress without drinking.
If you live near mountains, take up hiking or rock climbing. These activities allow you to stay physically active and reduce stress without experiencing the consequences of alcohol. Areas in Boulder, Colorado offer many breathtaking locations for rock climbing.
2. Meditate or Practice Yoga
For centuries, people have meditated to relax. Researchers have studied the physical and psychological benefits of mindfulness exercises such as meditation. Some even suggest that meditation has more health benefits than going on vacation. These activities can reduce anxiety, depression, stress and pain.
Yoga, a popular mindfulness activity, uses physical poses and breathing modulations to help increase strength, relaxation and spirituality. Many people utilize traditional therapies and yoga for addiction recovery.
3. Listen to Music
Instead of drinking, you could listen to music. Many people listen to music to relax. The activity releases endorphins in the brain, which boosts your mood and improves your blood flow and blood pressure.
Listening to music can be beneficial during recovery. A number of musicians, including Macklemore and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, have recorded songs about overcoming the perils of addiction. These songs can relax and inspire people in recovery.
4. Read a Book
A good book can take your mind off stressful situations. Find a quiet location, such as a library or park, where you can decompress and read for a period of time. Reading can help you improve your focus, reduce stress and stimulate your mind.
Research shows that self-help books can help ease depression, a common outcome of alcohol problems. In fact, a 2013 study conducted by researchers with the University of Manchester found that low-intensity interventions, such as reading self-help books, can help reduce severe depression.
5. Go to the Beach
If you live near the coast, try going to the beach. The beach provides fresh air and soothing sounds that help people relax. Studies have shown that beaches have calming effects. For example, the sound of ocean waves can activate the release of dopamine and serotonin in the brain, improving your mood.
Research also shows that sun exposure assists the body in producing vitamin D, which increases bone strength. Gazing at the ocean for a period of time can clear your mind, and breathing in the ocean air can recharge your body.
After a difficult day, avoiding alcohol can be difficult. But finding alternative activities that help you relax and relieve stress can reduce your risk of developing alcohol-related complications while improving your overall health.
Medical Disclaimer: DrugRehab.com aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
Matt Gonzales is a writer and researcher for DrugRehab.com. He graduated with a degree in journalism from East Carolina University and began his professional writing career in 2011. Matt covers the latest drug trends and shares inspirational stories of people who have overcome addiction. Certified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in health literacy, Matt leverages his experience in addiction research to provide hope to those struggling with substance use disorders.
Bower, P. et al. (2013). Influence of initial severity of depression on effectiveness of low intensity interventions: meta-analysis of individual patient data. Retrieved from http://www.bmj.com/content/346/bmj.f540
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