Self-care and self-awareness are key to maintaining a life in recovery
Most people who have previously done a treatment program are familiar with the acronym H.A.L.T.:
- Hungry
- Angry
- Lonely
- Tired
HALT is often used in recovery as a reminder to pause and evaluate what you’re feeling that could be triggering a craving or urge to use substances. With BBQ season upon us in the Maritimes, these fun and informal gatherings with friends and family can be particularly challenging for those in recovery.
Our BBQ + HALT Checklist below contains a few tricks and tips to help avoid relapse while enjoying the summer BBQ season.
Have a Snack Before You Go
We’ve all arrived at an event anticipating food, only to have to wait several hours until it’s ready. Have a snack before you arrive and have another in reserve. You’ll keep your energy up and avoid that “hangry” feeling. If you show up and there’s food there ready to go, great—but if not, you’ll be okay.
You’ve anticipated and addressed “Hungry.”
Avoid People Who Trigger You
Our social circles may include people who have a history of tempting us to use or cause us to become upset and unresourceful. Maybe your circle includes a former partner or drinking buddy. Check in with yourself and respect your boundaries. Allow yourself a break from those people and situations.
You’ve anticipated and addressed “Angry.”
Bring a Friend
Bring a friend and unambiguously ask for the support you need. Ask the host if you can bring a friend and consider bringing someone in your recovery circle. Who better to hang out with than a sponsor or friend in recovery?
You’ve anticipated and addressed “Lonely.”
Try to Be Well Rested
The days are long, the sun is out, and you want to pack in as much of the Maritime summer as possible. Get a good night’s sleep the night before or have a nap before heading out. If naps aren’t your thing, charge up with a short meditation.
You’ve anticipated and addressed “Tired.”
Fortunately, hunger, anger, loneliness, and tiredness are easy to address and serve as a warning system before things reach a breaking point. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy the BBQ season to the fullest!
A Team That Supports Your Recovery Goals
The staff at our EHN Canada facilities are both compassionate and highly skilled, which makes them able to offer the most current, evidence-based forms of treatment. In working with our integrative team, you get the benefit of expertise from several specialists. The result is a structured and holistic addiction recovery program that offers a high degree of success.
Change is possible. When you are ready to transform your life, then EHN Bellwood Nova Scotia looks forward to welcoming you; learn more about our inpatient residential treatment programs today
