In early sobriety, when are brains are healing from the damaging effects of drugs and alcohol, we usually have to deal with problems relating to memory and concentration. Early recovery is a difficult time because we have so much to learn, but may still feel mentally “foggy” for a long time. Here are three tips to help bring you out of the fog and improve your memory and concentration:
Exercise Your Mind with Activities
The brain is a muscle that needs to be worked out to get stronger. Reading, playing an instrument, doing crosswords, or any activity that requires mental stimulation can do wonders for our cognitive abilities. We should choose challenging activities that teach us new things and give us a sense of reward or achievement. This allows our brain to develop in new ways and sharpen the mind.
Get Adequate Sleep
Sleep is incredibly important to mental functioning. According to the National Institutes of Health, sleep deprivation (SD) can have major effects on our cognitive abilities during waking hours: “First and foremost, total SD impairs attention and working memory, but it also affects other functions, such as long-term memory and decision-making. Partial SD is found to influence attention, especially vigilance.” Sleep allows us to consolidate memory as well as feel more alert throughout the day, helping our decision-making abilities and concentration.
Eat Healthy
Food has a huge impact on our cognitive abilities. Junk foods that are high in sugar may give us an energy boost, but ultimately lead to a “sugar crash” that leaves us tired and mentally groggy. The Art of Living explains, “the more you gorge on sweets, chocolates, ice-creams and other junk food, the more fidgety your mind will be. And naturally the less you can put your mind to studies. Simple connection, right? So choose carefully what you eat. Avoid food with too much spice or sugar and reduce the intake of fried and junk food. It can make you feel lethargic, especially in the afternoons when you sit to do your homework. Include more of fresh fruits and vegetables, juices and salads in your diet.”
Recovery is about healing the mind, body, and spirit. You can begin the healing process by seeking help for addiction and begin building a healthy, happy future in sobriety. Oceanfront Recovery, a men’s treatment facility in Orange County, California, offers the chance to achieve sobriety in a beautiful beachfront environment. For more information about Residential Treatment in Orange County and other treatment options, please call today: (877) 279-1777
