Addiction Recovery: Overcoming Loneliness

By Author: Care Addiction
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Starting a new life after recovery can feel very lonely and isolating. It is natural to feel this way, as your old social circle is gone. Many people who struggle with addiction have old friends who used drugs - and now you avoid situations where substances will be present.

Even though family members and loved ones may be supportive, they are often unable to relate to what you are going through.

What Is Loneliness?

Loneliness can strike at any time. It is the feeling of being alone, no matter how much social contact one has. You do not have to be alone in order to feel lonely.

Loneliness cannot be simply treated with medications, and the tools of dealing with loneliness must be formulated by yourself. Here are some suggestions on how to deal with loneliness in recovery.

1. Be At Ease With Feelings Of Aloneness - Accept That It Is Normal

It's okay to feel lonely sometimes. In order to cope with loneliness, you have to acknowledge the feeling, accept that it's ok, and know you have the tools to deal with it.

Be careful not to isolate yourself when acknowledging feelings ...
... of loneliness. Social isolation is the absence of social contacts and having few regular contacts.

2. Attend Meetings Regularly

Individuals in recovery may find that attending regular group therapy or 12-Step meetings like AA is beneficial for connecting with other sober people and discussing loneliness. To feel connected, it is natural for people to seek out other like-minded individuals. Discourage loneliness by building a strong, sober support network.

3. Rebuild Relationships


Families and friends can be alienated by individuals with addictions. When recovering from addiction, making amends with friends and family can help reduce feelings of loneliness. Talk to the people you want in your life. Find friends and family who encourage and empower you.

Restoring relationships takes time - they are typically reestablished through frequent, low-intensity contact. As well as giving and taking, you may also need to be a friend to someone else. When you connect with others and listen to what they need, you also remove the emotional detachment of loneliness. 

4. Engage In Activities You Enjoy


You don't necessarily have to be lonely just because you're alone. When you're alone, you can engage in activities you enjoy, like reading, writing, meditating, or listening to music.

It can also be a great way to meet new people through classes or clubs. Classes at fitness clubs range from kickboxing to yoga to weight training - while other classes like cooking, art, and writing can help you discover new interests.

Remember to take a deep breath and take care of yourself when you find yourself lonely.

If you or a loved one would like to know more about group therapy or need addiction help, contact Care Addiction Center.

Care Addiction Center provides compassionate, confidential & professional treatment services for adults suffering from alcohol & substance abuse. We believe that recovery from alcoholism and drug addiction is possible, even in very late stages. Our experienced and caring staff is dedicated to providing comprehensive drug treatment services for alcoholism and substance abuse with multiple levels of care. Substance Abuse Treatment for Kane County, Geneva, Batavia, St. Charles, Elburn, South Elgin, West Chicago, and Aurora Illinois.