It is no secret that an addiction can be quite expensive. Some users report spending thousands of dollars a month on high quality substances that can only be purchased from certain places, stored certain ways, or used in certain quantities. It is worth noting, however, that addiction recovery can incur its fair share of costs, too. While many insurance plans cover the brunt of addiction treatment plans (including inpatient care), the money lost from not being able to work, the saving used to pay bills, and the cost of things not covered under insurance might make things a little tight when you get back home. Recovery after treatment, however, does not at all have to be expensive. While it is nice to be able to join clubs and organizations, take up new hobbies, and pursue new activities, some of these things require members, dues, and the like. To recover and maintain sobriety effectively on a budget, there are a few things you can do. The first thing is to focus on spending more time with family. While addicted, it is very likely that you pushed away family members, friends and loved ones that did not agree with your habit. Then, in addiction treatment, you may have spent up to several months away from them as you worked to break addiction’s hold and return to a life of sobriety. Spending the time that you are now home to reconnect with these individuals can be a big, positive addition to your recovery journey. Not only will reconnecting provide positive stimulation for you, it will also give you a chance to speak openly with them and ask them for assistance as you continue your recovery journey. Another way to continue your path to sobriety is to exercise on your own, or with friends. Exercise is a great, free way to stimulate your body, and to provide much of the same euphoric “high” you experienced with a substance. The natural high that comes from exercise, however, actually aids in the rewiring of your brain’s reward system, and helps further shape the new and substance-free you. Exercising is also a wonderful way to make new friends and keep your mind focused on healthy stimulants. It also will help keep your body in shape, and strengthen your immune system to make it more effective in stopping pathogens and bacteria. Simple exercises you can enjoy include jogging, skating, biking, or a game of soccer or basketball!
Recovery doesn’t have to be expensive, but addiction almost always is. Isn’t it time you spent your money– and your life– on things that can bring you true joy? Call Oceanfront Recovery at (877)279-1777, and start your journey to freedom today!