Starting on the journey to kick an addiction is tough for anybody. But imagine doing that while you’re also dealing with ongoing health issues. It’s like trying to climb a huge hill, and halfway up, a storm hits. You’re not just battling the urge to slip back into old habits, but you’re also wrestling with whatever health curveballs life’s thrown at you. It’s a two-front war that needs a battle plan tailored just for you, heaps of patience, and a truckload of determination.

The Complexity of Managing Two Fronts

Tackling sobriety when you’ve also got chronic illnesses or mental health struggles to deal with is super tricky. In a way, it’s like walking a tightrope while juggling–you’ve got to keep everything in balance, or you risk taking a tumble. For a lot of people, reaching for a drink or drugs was basically their way of hitting the mute button on the physical or emotional pain that came with their health issues, but once they decide to kick the addiction, it’s like unmuting everything all at once. The pain, stress–you name it–comes flooding back full force.

That’s why it’s super important not to just go at it alone or with a one-size-fits-all plan. Recovery needs to be about the whole picture. I’m talking about a plan that’s tailor-made for you, that tackles both the addiction side of things and whatever health condition you’re dealing with. It’s like you’re getting a custom-built roadmap that guides you through both landscapes–health and sobriety–so you don’t get lost along the way.

It’s about setting yourself up with the right team too–doctors, therapists, and support groups who get the double trouble you’re dealing with. They’re the ones who can throw you a lifeline, shine a light on the path ahead, and be there to high-five you for every small win on your journey. And let’s not forget about leaning on your personal crew–family, friends, or anyone who’s in your corner cheering you on.

Also, don’t forget, patience is key here. Healing is not a race, nor is it a straight line. There are going to be ups and downs, twists and turns–this part is guaranteed. It comes down to taking it one step at a time, celebrating the good days and knowing that the tough ones are just part of the journey to getting better.

In Case of Emergency: How Medical ID Dog Tags Save Lives

When you’re dealing with getting sober and handling health issues at the same time, staying safe is top of the list. That’s where medical warning dog tags come in handy. Think of them as your silent backup in tricky situations. And while they make for cute accessories—they’re actually lifesavers. They carry very important info about your health conditions and your history with substance use. The reason why many call them lifesavers is because when you’re in a situation where you can’t speak up for yourself, maybe because you’re out cold or just too overwhelmed, these tags “do the talking” for you. They let doctors and emergency workers know what they’re dealing with right off the bat, so they can give you the right kind of care without missing a beat. And they’re clued in on any potential recovery-related issues they need to watch out for.

Embracing Hope and Resilience

Hitting the road to sobriety, especially when you’re already battling health issues, is no walk in the park. It’s more like hiking up a mountain but…the view from the top? Totally worth it. It’s a trip that’s got its fair share of potholes and challenges, sure. But with the right game plan, a crew of people who’ve got your back, and some smart moves to keep you safe, you can make this journey a whole lot smoother.

Think of it as scoring small wins and learning the ropes as you go. Got through a tough day without reaching for a drink? That’s a win. Learned something new about handling your health? Score another one. Bit by bit, you’re laying down the bricks to build a life that’s all about feeling good, living better, and being free from the things that used to hold you back.

Contributor Nina Dent

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be seen as medical advice. It is not meant to replace professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a healthcare professional. Always consult with your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.

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CURATED CRAFTS will give you fun and easy ideas to keep your hands and your mind busy. Art therapy is good for the soul!

Are you a Sober Foodie? ENOUGH IS A FEAST by Sober Curator & Wellness Guru Megan Swan covers healthy, and sometimes lazy recipes and mindful eating tips that align with your alcohol-free lifestyle.

FIRST TIMERS Sober Curator Megan Wright is the purveyor of the philosophy “When Was the Last Time You Did Something for the First Time?”

LAUGHING WITHOUT LIQUOR Sober Curators Tamar Medford and Lane Kennedy will show you how to laugh your way to a booze-free lifestyle.

SHIMMER & SHAME by Sober Curator Allyson Sullivan hopes to resonate with readers, offering a mirror to Allyson’s experiences, thoughts, and feelings in early recovery. She aims to create a sense of camaraderie, assuring you that you’re not alone in your journey.

SOBER SWEAT with Sober Curator Ashley Sunderland will pump you up!  Here you will find quick workouts and nutrition tips that are too legit. (Too legit to quit!)

SOBER UNBUZZED FEED is a collection of 24 Lists, each featuring 24 inspiring ideas, actions, and motivations to guide you towards being your best sober self in 2024.

SOBRIETY ON THE SPECTRUM is a guide to recovery, twelve steps, and otherwise, for and about #ACTUALLYAUTISTIC alcoholics

YOU’VE BEEN SELECTED Sober Curator Kate Vitela has been an RN in Pacific Northwest for over two decades and sober since 2018.  You’ve Been Selected is a column that describes her journey through addiction, eating disorders, and what is now known as Drunkorexia.

WALK YOUR TALK with Sober Fashionistas Kate Vitala, Harley Skorpenske, and Alexandra Nyman. This section celebrates fashion and the role it plays in our recovery. Getting ready for life can be just as fun, if not more fun, now that we’re sober…because drunk never looks good.

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Resources Are Available

If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.

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