Recovery can be a scary journey: the fear of the unknown or fear of having to do the work involved can be paralyzing.
To keep fear in check, we strongly suggest participating in a 12-Step program such as Alcoholics Anonymous. It’s in these meetings that members share where they were before recovery, what they do during recovery, and where their lives are now. By sitting and listening to true stories filled with courage, strength, and hope, the benefits of being sober become much clearer and even obtainable.
Early in sobriety, the benefits of being sober and having gratitude go hand-in-hand.
Simply waking up, sleeping in a warm bed. or having a hot meal can be a benefit of being sober and something many are grateful for. Mending a relationship or encouraging words from a loved one can also be a benefit of being sober. As one progresses in the AA program, the benefits of sobriety and gratitude will continue to such things as finding new (and sober) friends, finding a purpose, fixing past mistakes, taking responsibility for one’s life, and much more.
Sadly, one actively in the disease of addiction may not be receptive to hearing the wonderful benefits of being sober. We can only hope that someday they will be ready for recovery. And when they are, all the wonderful benefits of being sober will begin to unfold like little miracles.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, help is available.
The benefits of being sober are waiting for you – you just have to make the first move by calling a treatment center.