Top 5 Ways to Stay Sober

Everyone is different. Some people, once they make a decision, find it easy to stay on the straight and narrow path. However, for most people, staying sober is difficult, especially at first. The cravings for alcohol do not go away immediately and you will go through periods where you have an intense desire to drink. It is in these critical moments when you need to take action and overcome the temptation. Below are five options to help you stay sober.

#5 - Get some exercise. Don't let the energy build up. Release it with some exercise. Exercise is known to release stress and help people feel better and more relaxed.

#4 - Meditate. Prayer and meditation are useful and effective ways to control the urge to take a drink. One trick is to have a word or phrase that you associate with being sober. Think of it as a spiritual vitamin: a "sobermin". "I am cool calm and collected." My mom's favorite phrase to trigger a relaxed attitude. Now you can use it too!

#3 - Visit sober friends. Let me repeat that. Visit sober friends! If you are having the urge to drink visit sober friends. No moping around! No stewing in your own head! Spending time with friends is a good way to take the edge off and relax.

#2 - Go to an AA meeting - Going to an AA meeting is a sure-fire way of keeping with the sobriety program. This is a tried and true method. Get a list of all the AA meetings in your area so that you can go to an AA meeting every day if necessary.

#1 - Call you sponsor. Having a sponsor is the best way to stay sober. Addiction recovery is difficult. Having a sponsor who is helping you work through your issues is the best way to make your sobriety a success.