One of the hardest things for an addict is boredom, and the cold winter can bring that about. In addition to that, the days are shorter and the weather is less than hospitable. Don’t let winter be the cause of a relapse or the cause of an addiction. Here are some things you can do to get through the winter happy and healthy:
- Join a gym. An hour spent sweating away your worries is much better than an hour spent drinking them away. Many gyms run specials that make it affordable for any budget.
- Plan a trip. Even if it is just for a weekend, getting into the sun and having a healthy dose of vitamin D is always good for a person’s spirit.
- Find a new hobby. Look online and in your local papers to see about classes going on in your neighborhood. From knitting to MMA, there’s something for everyone, and maybe you’ll find some hidden talents you never knew you had.
- Don’t isolate yourself. Because of the shorter daytime hours and darkness, many people tend to keep to themselves in the winter. Instead, throw a party or meet some friends for a movie. The less time spent by yourself, the better.
- Take on a Side Job. If you don’t have obligations to prevent you from doing so, why not take on a side job? It is a good opportunity to make some extra money and keep you busy.
- Never keep alcohol or drugs at home. The worst part of addiction is the time spent home alone indulging in it, because it becomes a better option than spending time with friends or pursuing healthy activities. If you don’t have access to your substance of choice, you’ll be much less likely to pick it up.
If your mood seems to visibly dip in the winter, think about talking to your doctor about antidepressants, and a therapist about healthy ways to cope with the change in season. While winter may make the world turn a little darker, it doesn’t mean yours needs to.
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