People, Places, Things: Steps to Take Now

There is no right way and no wrong way to stay sober and clean. Whatever works, works. You are also more likely to use or drink when you are around the people, places, and things that were part of your old drug or drinking life. Before you stop completely or walk out of detox, plan now to stay away from anyone, any place, and anything that could cause a trigger. It will help you through the early days.

For instance:

Get yourself into a Recovery Programme (see organisations below that may be able to help)

Go to 90 meetings in 90 days, at AA, NA or both

Avoid the ‘old crowd’ as much as you can. Delete the names of the people you drank or used with from your address book, phone, email, and other devices

Avoid the people who get you angry

Find good company. Ask your friends or family for support

Map out different routes to avoid dealers and pubs

Fill your cupboards so you always have something to eat

Put away your cash, debit or credit cards if having money is one of your triggers

As much as you can, rest, relax and sleep

Make a list of the bad effects alcohol or drugs has had on your health, life, friends, and family, and, be honest!

Make a list of the benefits of staying off drugs and alcohol

Add to this list every day you’re in recovery – new people you meet, ways you are proud of yourself etc.

Talk to a support worker about your home life. Having drink or drugs in the house is a powerful trigger. So is an abusive living situation. If you cannot change your living situation, it is even more important to have lots of skills to rely on.

Write down your social network (the people you spend time with) and then assess the extent to which this network supports continued using or recovery. Write down the people who will keep you where you are by using with you, providing you with alcohol / drugs, bail you out of trouble, etc. Then write the names of those persons who will be the most supportive of your recovery. Now how will you avoid the individuals in the first list whilst drawing upon the support of those in the second? Remember who you decide to spend time with is your choice and you have the control!