Addiction is a mental illness that is characterized by negative thoughts and behaviors. This mental state is not “deliberate” and very often, substance abuse is not a “chosen” behavior at all. This is because of the way alcohol and drugs affect the brain, resulting in compulsive substance abuse that’s beyond the person’s control. If you are working to overcome addiction, you will learn mechanisms for avoiding negative thoughts during recovery. Here we take a closer look at why that is so effective in promoting long-term sobriety.

How to Stay Positive during Recovery

There are some simple steps you can take to develop a more positive mindset, including the following:

Develop Awareness

Before you can become more positive about life, you have to recognize the way you are thinking now and how it impacts on your behavior. Understanding the connection between negative thought processes and continued substance abuse is the best way of eliminating them. By removing thoughts that would otherwise act as triggers for substance abuse, you are better-place to achieve a healthy recovery.

Develop Gratitude

It can be very easy to feel hard-done by no matter what your circumstances are. However, people who have struggled with addiction are emerging from a very negative place when they begin rehab. Although it is difficult, with help from therapists it is possible to recognize that there is much to be grateful for.  By taking time to reflect on each day, you can discover what your blessings are in life and be thankful for them.

Talk it Out

Individual and group therapy sessions are vital in rehab because they promote better communication of thoughts and feelings. But talking with others doesn’t have to be confined to therapy. In fact, research shows that people are more likely to achieve long-term sobriety if they feel supported by those close to them. Start a dialogue with loved ones on the way you are thinking and feeling. They will want to know as they will want to help and it really is true that “problems shared are problems halved”.

Get Help for Substance Abuse at Capo Canyon Recovery

Capo Canyon Recovery offers personalized treatment programs at our detox facility near Mission Viejo, CA. With our help, you can start your journey to long-term recovery at our exclusive addiction recovery center in Laguna Niguel, CA. If you feel that you are ready to take the first step, contact Capo Canyon Recovery in confidence today.