Alcoholism, also called alcohol addiction or alcohol use disorder (AUD), can develop in people from all walks of life. Multiple behavioral, genetic, and psychological factors can contribute to the development of this particular mental health issue. Getting professional help is not a sign of weakness but an essential step in overcoming addiction and maintaining a sober life after rehab. The summer months can sometimes be challenging for people in early addiction recovery. Memories of alcohol-infused social events and family gatherings may temporarily gloss over the grim reality of managing a chronic disease. Maintaining addiction recovery during this time will depend on sober summer activities and remaining connected to a support network.
If you’re searching for a women’s alcohol rehab program in New Harmony, Utah, reach out to Painted Desert Recovery today. Call 844.540.0357 or contact our team online.
Should Women Struggling With Alcohol Addiction Always Aim to Maintain Sobriety?
There is no established cure for AUD. Someone struggling with alcohol misuse will continue to do so throughout their life. It’s rare for someone struggling with AUD to get better without going completely sober. The addiction recovery process for alcoholism is a lifetime commitment, which can be difficult to keep without a foundation of support. Sober groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or a community group of sober women can provide that type of support, especially since all members share the addiction experience.
Someone new to addiction recovery may find sober life lonely or not fun compared to life while struggling with AUD. Women, in particular, may have trouble remaining abstinent because they’re used to self-medicating and finding comfort in addictive behavior. However, not everyone can be happy having “just one or two drinks.” Addiction is a treatable chronic disease but not to the point of curing it. Relapse of any chronic disease can and does occur. In fact, the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports the relapse rate for addiction is between 40% and 60%.
What Are Some Sober Summer Activities for Women in Utah?
Sober activities in Utah are often outdoorsy because the state offers many locations where people can enjoy fun summer activities, like the following:
- Biking — Women can take bike trips alone or with a group to explore the outdoors and get away from the stress of daily life. Biking is not only a form of exercise but also a way to enjoy the sights and sounds of an area.
- Go camping — With five national parks and over 30 state parks, Utah is a great place to camp. Fortunately, most camping trips are fun and safe. Camping is always fun during the summer months when campers can comfortably sleep under the stars.
- Go hiking — Whether it’s walking the world-famous trails in Utah’s five national parks or finding peace and quiet in the remote Southern Utah desert, hikers can definitely enjoy hiking in Utah without alcohol.
- Plan a barbeque — This distinctly American way of celebrating the summer is popular in Utah, where people can find seriously good eats with an authentic Southern barbecue taste or a unique state flair. Invite friends and family from your sober support network to bring their tastiest dishes and serve an array of alcohol-free beverages to keep everyone hydrated.
- Water-related activities — Whether a lake, a river, or the ocean, a body of water can be a relaxing location during the summer. Women can put on swimsuits and apply sunscreen before canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, river rafting, surfing, or swimming under the sun.
As a woman, you may be worried about your safety when out on the open road and exploring nature. It may be a good idea to join sober support groups and other communities that plan activities like this as a group. Women in addiction recovery should enjoy the summer knowing that their abstinence is prioritized and protected.
When Should You Consider a Women’s Alcohol Rehab Program?
Women struggling with staying abstinent can find deep inspiration from sober women who are members of sober support groups they’re in, apart from the obvious support. In many ways, gender-specific rehab options can provide the support that some clients require to even start thinking about overcoming alcohol addiction.
If you or a woman you love is struggling with AUD, consider professional help. Remember, too, that maintaining sobriety is a lifelong commitment. Anyone who develops AUD will always go through daily life while resisting the compulsion to drink.
Ready To Learn More About Painted Desert Recovery’s Women’s Alcohol Rehab Program?
If you’re looking for a women’s alcohol rehab program in New Harmony, Utah, contact Painted Desert Recovery today. Reach out to our team online or call 844.540.0357.