Boredom can be an unexpected, yet frustrating, feeling in the early stages of sobriety. The brain has become accustomed to unnaturally high levels of dopamine from repeated substance use, and will need time to “reset” back to a more natural level. Due to this, everyday life at the start of sobriety can feel rather joyless and dull. Don’t lose hope! This is an expected feeling and you will experience pleasure in everyday occurrences again.
Take some time to re-evaluate what you want to do in your life now that you are sober. What are some hobbies you used to enjoy before active addiction? What are some of those projects you may have procrastinated previously? Be sure not to overwhelm yourself with all of the opportunities and options. Make a schedule or to-do list. Having a regular routine can provide consistency and peace of mind in recovery. Create small goals to accomplish daily, weekly, or monthly. All of this can provide positive things in your life to focus on and anticipate.
If creating a new sober routine feels daunting, and you’re not sure where to start, a therapist can help. A therapist can assist you in identifying what you’d like to accomplish and how to go about doing it in a way that is manageable and realistic for you.
-Written by Danielle Bastian, Men’s Therapist
