Addiction is complex and affects a person’s mental, physical, and spiritual health. Addiction changes the brain’s chemistry and leads to substance dependence. People often abuse drugs and alcohol to cope with stress or devastating circumstances.
Journaling is a therapeutic tool often used in treatment and recovery to keep track of emotions and feelings, and reveals how a person copes without using drugs or alcohol. Writing empowers a person to stay sober by recording the days, months, and years without using drugs and alcohol.
Journaling has many health benefits.
The physical act of writing is calming. It soothes the soul and is a healthy activity that lowers anxiety and stress while promoting critical thinking. Journaling helps you look deeper into your feelings with a clear, sober mind. It also gives you time to reflect on your experiences and provides insight into feelings and deep-seated thoughts.
Journaling curbs relapse.
When you keep a journal, your mind is occupied with your success in sobriety. It reduces the risk of turning to drugs or alcohol to cope with stressful situations. Journaling allows you to reflect on previous challenges and see what caused thoughts of relapse, how you were feeling at the time, and what you did to avoid it.
Journaling increases motivation.
Instead of turning to substances to cope, writing improves mental health and relieves anxiety and stress. Writing also promotes sober living success and helps counselors and clients identify emotional concerns.
Journaling boosts confidence.
Writing is an emotional outlet that you can use in treatment and in recovery. During drug and alcohol use, the brain was affected and the substances took control of the body’s functions. The substance-controlled brain leads to the inability to remember important events, dates, and family gatherings. Writing boosts communication and improves memory. Mindfulness can be cultivated through writing, which improves planning and cognitive function.
Writing in a journal is a great stress relief activity and is helpful in restoring mindfulness and spiritual awareness. It is used in treatment and throughout recovery and helps a person transition into a new, sober lifestyle while improving mental and physical well-being.
Recovery from addiction is possible. If you or a loved one is struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, get help now. Nexus Recovery Services specializes in addiction treatment and encompasses holistic therapy for the mind, body, and soul. Our mission is to provide tools for every client’s seamless transition into a meaningful and fulfilling life without drugs or alcohol. You are not alone. Call now for a free and confidential consultation: 310-881-9151