Depending on how deeply ingrained alcohol is in your life, you may be staring down an entire life makeover. However, others striving for or in sobriety may find themselves asking “Why is sobriety so hard? ” Lifestyle modifications can be uncomfortable and perhaps even generate anger and resentment. If you let fear cripple your progress, you will not be able to grow into your new life. Your comfort zone is gone and you are finding yourself in new, unknown territory. Now, imagine your blanket gets taken from you, but your friends still have theirs.
- Building a strong support network of individuals who understand and support one’s sobriety goals can provide the necessary encouragement and accountability.
- Common fears experienced in recovery include the fear of relapse, the fear of failure, the fear of change, the fear of judgment, and the fear of vulnerability [2].
- In order to achieve long-term sobriety, your focus should be on what you can do today to become a sober person.
- Some people manage to get there faster than others, but it’s not a competition.
Understanding Why People Fear Sobriety
Failing to care for oneself physically, emotionally, or mentally can indicate a relapse. This may manifest in poor hygiene, lack of sleep, neglecting responsibilities, or engaging in risky behaviors. Recognizing the importance of self-care and seeking help fear of being sober is essential during this time. Withdrawing from social activities, avoiding contact with loved ones, and isolating oneself can be indicators. It is crucial to reach out for support and connect with a supportive network when feelings of isolation arise.
Sobriety Fear #9: You won’t be able to handle your feelings without alcohol.
It can all seem like a great deal of work with no real reward. Fear may have kept you locked into addiction, and while you may have reservations about getting clean and sober, recovery is the way to lifelong health and happiness. Our Atlanta treatment programs are overseen by experienced and compassionate professionals whose number one goal is to help you reach lifelong recovery. The tools and support you receive from The Berman Center will help you transform into the person you want to become.
How Fear Fuels Addiction
It’s also worth exploring different options to see what resonates best with personal needs and preferences. To understand what it means to be sober, it’s important to acknowledge the decision to abstain from alcohol or drugs. By prioritizing one’s well-being and embracing a healthy lifestyle, individuals can truly embody sobriety. The significance of sobriety lies in enhancing personal safety and fostering better physical and mental health. The detrimental effects of alcohol and drugs on the body and mind make it even more crucial to choose a sober path, as it ultimately promotes overall well-being.
- It plays a significant role in shaping one’s journey towards sobriety and personal growth [1].
- You can’t fail at sobriety, you can only keep trying and keep growing.
- Besides, once you get to the point where you can attend boozy social functions sober, you’ll see that many people think they’re being charming when in reality, they’re kind of a mess.
- One of the most prevalent fears in recovery is the fear of relapse.
Cognitive Therapy and Mind-Body Relaxation
What you do NOT want to do is let your fear about what MIGHT happen with your friends in the future dictate what you do to take care of yourself in the present. Navigating your existing relationships in sobriety is a huge challenge. The good thing is that you don’t have to worry about that in the beginning.
Most Common Reasons People are Afraid to Get Sober
Can meditation or mindfulness help with overcoming the fear of being sober?
Reflect on the benefits of sobriety to maintain your motivation
