How Does It Feel to Be 90 Days Sober?

The first 90 days sober may bring several surprises you don’t expect.  You’ve been told that you’ll feel better without drugs and alcohol in your system.  But, you assumed this meant no more hangovers and brain fog.  After the first three months of sobriety, you’ll discover several major improvements in your overall health.  

If you’re ready to quit drugs or alcohol, the best approach involves professional detox and rehab.  Of course, you’ll face many challenges along the way, but you’ll also reap many benefits.  Here are some things you can expect in the early days of recovery.  

Why the First 90 Days Sober Are Called the “Danger Zone”

The first 90 days of sobriety are the most difficult for some people.  During this time, relapse is common because of the many obstacles that threaten to force you off track.  As a result, many people feel overwhelmed and revert to their previous substance use behaviors.  This 90-day time frame is often referred to as the “danger zone” due to the high potential for relapse.  

To avoid succumbing to the triggers and temptations in early recovery, you should engage in an aftercare program for continued support and guidance during this time of transition.

Make the Most of the First 90 Days Sober

The first three months in recovery are about reinventing your life and enjoying renewed health and vitality.  It’s a time for exploring the many opportunities available to you as a sober individual. 

Although the first 90 days sober can be exciting, they can also be somewhat daunting.  But, you can stay the course by following these suggestions:

>  Nurture Your Body and Mind

The connection between mental and physical wellness has been established for many years.  The mind and body work together to maintain overall well-being.  Because of this connection, your first three months of sobriety should include nutrition and exercise.  The best way to support mental wellness is to take time for self-care.  Spend time relaxing, walking, or meditating to improve clarity and focus.  Don’t forget to celebrate your successes, make a list of goals, and take things one step at a time.

>  Build a Trusted Support System

Being 90 days sober is a significant milestone, but you can’t achieve it alone.  You’ll need sober, supportive friends and family as well as a network of peers in recovery.  Your support team can also be members of your support groups, your counselors or therapists, sponsors, or mentors. Frequent interaction with people you trust will help you stay motivated as you rebuild your life.  You will also benefit from their companionship and advice.  Ultimately, with their help, you’ll find that being sober can be fun.

>  Cultivate New Habits

Part of your recovery program involved learning ways to replace negative thoughts and behaviors with new, positive ones.  The first 90 days of recovery is a great opportunity to put those skills to the test.  Start with simple things like journaling or taking yoga or meditation classes.  Some people in recovery begin new hobbies such as music, art, reading, or exercise.  Most importantly, you must establish a routine that keeps you focused on your goals.

Physical and Mental Benefits of Being 90 Days Sober

Without a doubt, drugs and alcohol take a toll on your mental and physical health.  People often experience mental effects like depression, anxiety, loneliness, despair, guilt, and shame.  The physical effects often include weight changes, sleeplessness, liver or kidney problems, premature aging, and more.  But, after 30, 60, or 90 days of sobriety, side effects decrease.  

Here a few more benefits of being sober you can expect:

• Manage stress and difficult emotions without relying on your substance of choice.
• Your loved ones trust you again and you can begin repairing damaged relationships.
• Resume pursuing your career or educational goals.
• Improved liver function which can have positive effects on the entire body.
• You’ll sleep better which will improve performance in daily tasks and responsibilities.
• An increase in energy and stamina will keep you motivated to succeed.

The longer you remain sober, the toxic effects of drugs or alcohol continue to leave your system.  You will realize that getting sober was the best decision ever.

Staying Sober Beyond the First 90 Days

Unquestionably, your first 90 days sober will present many ups and downs.  Lingering withdrawal symptoms may foster thoughts of giving up and taking a drink.  When this happens, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.  Call a sober friend or family member or attend a few extra support group meetings.  You don’t have to go through this difficult time on your own.

Get On a Path to Sobriety With Help from Design for Change Recovery

Now that you know what to expect in the first 90 days sober, it’s time to get started.  You’ll need a treatment program that provides evidence-based practices that are personalized to fit your needs.  Design for Change Recovery is proud to offer you the scientifically proven full continuum of care you need and deserve.  

We provide a range of treatment methods to ensure that our clients get the best level of care possible.  For instance, we offer detox and short-term or long-term outpatient programs, residential programs, and partial hospitalization programs.  Each level of care includes a customized program that targets the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual elements of addiction for whole-person healing.  

We are here to help you enjoy sober living and reclaim the passion for living you once had.  Contact our Lancaster, CA facility today to speak with a treatment advisor.  Once you take this first step, we will be by your side all the way through the treatment process.

Source:

psychologytoday.com/ – Relapse

cdc.gov – Drinking Too Much Alcohol Can Harm Your Health