If you are familiar with journaling, or even if you have never tried writing down thoughts or goals before, keeping a substance abuse journal does no harm! The best part about it is that there is no pressure. Addiction journaling is meant to help addicts see their patterns and triggers and to help them express themselves when experiencing intense cravings or fighting the temptation to relapse.
What Are the Benefits of an Addiction Journal?
Maintaining a journal of addiction behaviors and reflecting on thoughts during treatment or after receiving proper care has many benefits. For example, a person can see when they were triggered in a given situation and avoid possible temptations in the future. In addition, reflecting on bad habits or focusing on a natural feeling can help a person’s character growth. Additionally, a recovery journal helps regulate emotions since it provides a place for positive expression. Making journaling a part of a regular routine influences a person to maintain consistency. A former addict can begin to look forward to the quiet moments of time granted for self-reflection and self-care while motivating themselves to stay sober.
Recovery Journal Prompts
Again, no pressure! Journaling is meant to be simple, allowing people to clear their minds and write their emotions regarding the recovery journey. Whether you choose to journal in the morning, at a coffee shop, in nature, or before bed, no regulations or requirements will suppress you from writing. Here are some addiction journaling prompts that may help:
- Make a list of five major triggers, identify your number one trigger from the list, and write about it.
- Make a list of people in your support system. Why are these people in my support system? Do they know I’m thankful?
- Name ten things or people you are grateful for.
- What are three regrets you have? Why have they made you a stronger and better person today?
- How do I want to tell my addiction and recovery story in five or ten years?
- Where do I see myself when I’m five years sober?
- List five short-term goals and five long-term goals that you have for your life.
- What brings me peace?
- Do you want to travel? Look up places to travel and write about why you want to visit these places.
- How can you be a positive influence for others who are struggling with addiction?
- List three negative thoughts that replay in your mind and how you can direct those thoughts to be positive.
Sobriety journal prompts may include your thoughts on the day, how you reacted to a given situation, or what made you smile. You can write your past self letters and explain how you feel now or how life has changed. After a year or more of maintaining sobriety, you can review your past, make a self-assessment, and see what direction you are currently headed in. Don’t forget to reward your progress! Keeping a substance abuse journal is an excellent way to prevent relapse and keep your thoughts in order. Research different types of journaling like keeping a gratitude or goal-setting journal. Recovery is a lifelong process, so why not write your story down and recognize each milestone achieved.
Recovery Services at Evoke Wellness at Miramar
At our Florida Wellness Center, we offer medical drug detox for those struggling with addiction but who are ready to begin recovery. Whether it’s alcohol addiction detox or treatment for addiction to opioids, prescription pills, or benzos, our experienced team is prepared to guide you through the treatment process. A medically monitored detox helps patients to remove the toxins in the body and reduce symptoms and properly cope with withdrawal symptoms. Our unique programs and services include an alumni program, addiction aftercare, sober support groups, and more. A sober support network is essential to keep a positive outlook and stay motivated during treatment. Don’t forget that recovery is possible, and maintaining long-term sobriety can return you to living a productive life. Contact a specialist at Evoke Wellness by calling 833-819-6066 and ask about our residential rehab program to get started today! Related Readings: How to Stop Craving DrugsHow to Help An Addict Drug Use in High School
