Sobriety is an incredible experience—and one that many in recovery do not want to let go of. However, any individual who exits a recovery program will likely face encounters in the future where they are invited to use drugs or alcohol. These temptations are often seen as a test to one’s commitment to sobriety, but saying “no” should mean more than just a test of recovery—it should feel good.

If you are curious about how you will face drug and alcohol use temptations in sobriety after recovery or are currently struggling with your sobriety, here are a few reasons why it can feel great to say “no”:

• Saying No Exhibits Control

Individuals who become addicted to drugs or alcohol will often continue to abuse the substance as it is one of the few areas of their life that they feel they have control over. However, in reality, addiction shows that an individual is being controlled by an illicit substance—and such control makes it incredibly difficult to make important decisions and behave responsibly.

While saying no to any invitation to use drugs or alcohol may feel disappointing, it is important to remember that this act is a true sign that you have regained control of your life. If you abstain from drug or alcohol use, you are saying “yes” to self-control.

• Saying No Comes With Support

Saying no to drugs or alcohol, especially during the first months of recovery, will likely be a very challenging experience. However, it is important to remember that it is perfectly okay to feel challenged by these temptations. Even better, there are many individuals who are available to support you and commend your ability to say no.

If you are struggling with the allure of drugs or alcohol, it is encouraged to talk about these instances with friends, family or counselors that understand how important your sobriety is. Reflecting on these issues with a support group, counselor or loved one will not only help you recognize that you made the right choice in saying no, but that you have individuals in your life who care about you and your ongoing health.

• Saying No Breeds Confidence

Many individuals who enter addiction recovery will leave with an intense fear of relapse; a concern that tends to dissipate with time. Even if you have achieved sobriety through detox and addiction treatment, it may take some time to build confidence in your ability to stay in recovery. Saying no to any invitations to use drugs or alcohol will help you recognize that you are in it for the “long haul.” With this confidence, you will gradually begin to stop dwelling on drugs and alcohol and start focusing on the bright future ahead of you.

Reinforce Your Ability to Say “No” At Chapters Capistrano

While thorough detox services and flexible treatment are essential to achieving addiction recovery, it is also critical to make sure you or your loved one have taken careful measures to prepare for and prevent relapse. Chapters Capistrano is proud to offer not only on-site detox, flexible treatment programs and a comfortable residential center, but also comprehensive relapse prevention.

To learn more about how our relapse prevention and other programs can help you or your loved one achieve sobriety with confidence contact us today at 949-276-2886.