5 New Year Resolutions in Addiction Recovery
A time-honored tradition, New Year's resolutions involve individuals establishing objectives for the upcoming year after reflecting on the previous year. The commencement of a fresh year can evoke strong emotions and require individuals in recovery from addiction to confront the dual possibilities of reestablishment and renewed determination. In this post, I’ll propose five innovative and empowering resolutions for those undergoing the road to recovery.
Begin a "365 Days of Gratitude" Journal
Gratitude can cause one to redirect attention away from what is absent or difficult in one's life and toward what is current and constructive. Commit to recording one thing for which you are grateful each day this year. It may be a tranquil moment, the support of a friend, or a sunny morning. You will have 365 reminders of the positive aspects of your life by the end of the year, which can be especially uplifting during difficult times.
Learn a New Skill
Frequently, the process of recovery involves the rediscovery of one's true self in the absence of substances. Make it a priority to begin a new hobby or acquire a new skill this year. Participating in novel pursuits such as gardening, coding, painting, or learning a musical instrument can offer individuals a sense of fulfillment and a productive means of relieving stress. Additionally, it may grant you access to new communities and companions who share your interests.
Volunteer
Volunteering is an effective method of gaining perspective and giving back. Engaging in consistent volunteer work at a community center, food bank, or local shelter can foster a sense of purpose and connection. Supporting your own recovery journey, it is also a reminder of your strength and the positive influence you can have on the lives of others.
Establish a Wellness Regimen
A well-balanced way of life is essential for recovery. Make it a priority to develop a routine that supports your physical and mental well-being in the coming year. This could involve adopting a healthier diet, engaging in regular exercise, or practicing yoga or meditation. These activities not only promote holistic health but also provide daily structure and self-control, both of which are significantly beneficial in the process of sobriety maintenance.
Establish a Recovery Roadmap
What is the trajectory that you envision your recovery journey taking place this year? Make time available to develop a comprehensive plan or road map. Incorporate both immediate and long-term objectives, potential obstacles and strategies for overcoming them, and significant life events to commemorate advancements. Keeping you motivated and focused on your recovery throughout the year, this living document can function as a resource and source of inspiration.
In conclusion, individuals in recovery from addiction should aim to accomplish more with their New Year's resolutions than mere abstinence from substances. Rather, they should strive to construct a life that is satisfying, harmonious, and colorful. Every individual among you takes one step closer to not only surviving but flourishing. Never forget that each day presents a fresh chance to develop and strengthen your resolve toward recovery. Optimistic supplication, continued recovery, and good health for the coming year!
Betrayal trauma and infidelity do not have to define your relationship. With professional guidance from Jess Benedetto at BPB Counseling, you can begin to repair the damage, rebuild trust, and rediscover intimacy.
Healing After Infidelity: How Couples Therapy Can Help Rebuild Trust and Intimacy
When faced with partner betrayal trauma due to infidelity, compulsive lying, or addictive behaviors, the emotional and relational consequences can feel devastating. At BPB Counseling, our partner and couples therapist Jess Benedetto specializes in guiding individuals and couples through the intricate journey of affair repair, rebuilding trust, and returning to intimacy.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: A Path to Healing
Jess utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidence-based approach that encourages acceptance of challenging emotions and commitment to meaningful, value-driven actions. Instead of avoiding the pain and discomfort associated with betrayal, ACT helps clients face and tolerate their emotions, ultimately reducing reliance on harmful coping mechanisms like compulsive behaviors or repeated infidelity.
Mindfulness and Cognitive Diffusion
Mindfulness techniques form a core part of therapy at BPB Counseling, helping clients observe their thoughts and feelings without immediately reacting. This practice, known as cognitive diffusion, allows couples to slow down automatic responses that fuel distrust and further betrayal. By recognizing that you are not defined by every thought or urge, you can regain control and align with your core values.
Understanding the Stages of Change
Change isn’t linear, especially when recovering from betrayal trauma and infidelity. Jess emphasizes the trans-theoretical model, which assesses your readiness to embrace new behaviors and maintain healthier relationship patterns. Even if motivation fluctuates, our therapeutic approach supports your progress at every stage, helping you sustain positive change.
Harm Reduction and Relapse Prevention
Recovery from infidelity and betrayal trauma often involves ups and downs. At BPB Counseling, Jess helps clients anticipate and manage triggers, both internal (stress, insecurity, painful memories) and external (specific people or situations), reducing the likelihood of relapse into harmful behaviors. Mistakes along the way do not mean starting over—they're simply part of your journey toward healthier relationships.
Addressing Trauma and Its Impact
Trauma frequently underlies compulsive and harmful behaviors seen in infidelity and betrayal trauma. Jess provides a compassionate, trauma-informed therapeutic environment, fostering safety and trust. This approach allows couples and individuals to face, understand, and heal the deeper wounds that contribute to destructive relationship patterns.
Supporting Both Partners' Healing Journeys
Understanding that recovery looks different for everyone is crucial. While one partner may be ready to commit to change, the betrayed partner might just be beginning their healing process. Jess provides couples therapy that acknowledges and supports each partner's unique path and pace. Through empathy, patience, and professional guidance, couples can find renewed intimacy and rebuild trust.
Start Your Healing Journey Today
Betrayal trauma and infidelity do not have to define your relationship. With professional guidance from Jess Benedetto at BPB Counseling, you can begin to repair the damage, rebuild trust, and rediscover intimacy.
Ready to begin your journey toward meaningful change?
Schedule a session with Jess Benedetto, Partner and Couples Therapist at BPB Counseling, and take the first step toward healing and rebuilding your relationship today.