How to Combat Loneliness (Without Turning to Substances)
The current state of our world means many of us are spending more time isolated and/or alone than ever before.
This can be challenging for individuals in recovery. Substance use is often closely associated with comfort, which could ease feelings of loneliness, as well as social gatherings, which simply aren’t possible in the same way these days.
If you or someone you love is in recovery and struggling with loneliness during this time, here are some ways to combat those feelings without turning to substances.
Get creative
Finding ways to connect with people virtually and in ways that don’t center around substances may be difficult, so get creative! Seek out online recovery chat groups (such as those in Sober Grid), or invite friends and family to virtual game nights via Zoom, FaceTime, or House Party App. Take advantage of the outdoors by meeting up at a local park to play socially-distanced frisbee or other games.
Give back
Sometimes the act of giving of our time, energy, or money can help us feel connected to others and is often already a focus for individuals in recovery. Ways to give back include donating goods (lightly used clothing/shoes, food items) and services (home repair services, auto repair services, haircuts – whatever talent the individual has). Donating time is also a great way to give back. Community organizations are always looking for volunteers to complete various tasks! Seek out places with a mission you care about and reach out to see how you can help.
Limit social media
This might be counterintuitive (it is called “social” media, after all), but it’s important to not let platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter increase feelings of isolation through the “comparison game” or mindless scrolling. Set a time limit for how long you will engage with social media each day/week and stick to it.
Instead, spend time trying new things to find out what you like to do and potentially find a new and productive way to spend your time and meet other people interested in that activity. Reading, spending time with family and friends, and playing brain games (puzzles, sudoku, crosswords), are also great ways to spend time!
Invest in your close relationships
Now is a great time to be intentional in your relationships. Pick up the phone to call your mom, an old friend, or your grandparent you haven’t spoken with in a while. Close relationships build your team of supporters in a positive way! Having different people to call on in tough times and to build new positive memories is important, and connecting with loved ones often makes us feel happy and fulfilled: the exact opposite of loneliness.
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Each of us feels lonely at some point in life, and sometimes recovery can feel especially isolating. When combined with the challenges of today’s world, those feelings may be magnified even further.
Remember – even when it may feel like it, you are not alone on this journey. Use these tips to get and stay connected with friends and family, experience more fulfillment, and continue thriving in recovery.
If you could use additional support on your recovery journey, consider applying to Acceptance Recovery House, recovery residences for men in Biddeford and Arundel, ME. Click this link to learn more.
