Starting New and Healthy Habits

By Mark Gladden — Published: 2024-02-02 — Updated: 2026-07-14

Once you're in recovery, it’s time to start keeping some healthy habits. The top one will be doing your best to stay substance-free one day at a time. Practices like going to your 12 step meetings or therapy appointments are some of the more obvious ways to help you stay sober. There are other ones, too, to help you along the way.

Don’t isolate. Many people spend more time alone than they should in early recovery. Be social is a healthy habit to have in recovery.. It’s easy to get lonely or brush off concerned friends or family. If you’re isolating, what are you feeling? Are you depressed or angry? Are you “bored”? All of these feelings could be triggers to get drunk or use your drug of choice eventually. If you feel lonely, or you’ve been isolating, go to a support group or 12-step meeting. You should also reach out to your sponsor or sober friends.
Take care of your body with a healthy diet. Your body won’t heal from the damage of drug or alcohol abuse overnight. Nurturing your body is one healthy habit everyone should aim for throughout life. Some people find out that they have vitamin deficiencies or other signs of a poor diet. Pay attention to which fruits and vegetables you enjoy and make room for them in your diet.
See a doctor. Many people who are in recovery shy away from regular checkups, but it’s important to take care of yourself. Seeing a doctor is a healthy habit to establish People who use drugs long-term are more likely to have chronic health problems than the rest of the population. You deserve to feel better when you’re sick. Don’t hesitate to take care of yourself. Another part of this healthy habit is taking your medications daily if you have any.
Take care of your mental health. Many people in recovery benefit from therapy if they have trouble with anxiety or depression. Mental health is just as important as physical therapy. Keeping a feeling journal that many people in recovery use as a healthy habit. Ask for help when you need it. Learn about self-care and other healthy habits to help yourself cope with stress.
Do chores and act responsibly. Do your laundry. Clean up regularly no matter what living situation you are in. Make your bed, do your dishes, etc.
Listen to your body. How does it feel? Learn to acknowledge if you’re pushing yourself too hard or to the point of exhaustion. Get rest if you're tired. Eat a snack or meal if you're hungry. Sleep eight hours a night. See the doctor if there are aches and pains or other health issues you've been ignoring.

Life can sometimes be challenging, but it’s worth it. You deserve to enjoy your time, but don’t forget the basics. If you’re ever feeling tempted to use drugs or alcohol, reach out to your sponsor or a sober friend. If that doesn’t work, try to get to a 12-step meeting. Staying sober is always the top priority

Considering Sober Living?

Consider Sober Living

Starting healthy habits is easier when your environment is designed to support them — structured sober living builds the daily routines that make new habits stick. At By the Sea Recovery, men in early recovery build healthy routines in a structured sober living home in North County San Diego. Learn more about our daily schedule and what structured sober living looks like. Check Availability or call 760-216-2077 to learn more.

Tags: habits, healthy, recovery

Ready to take the next step? Call By the Sea Recovery at 760-216-2077 or contact us online.

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