Romantic relationships have their value, but they can also bring intense feelings that are difficult to deal with in early recovery. Many are drawn to these attachments because they offer a distraction, increase feelings of self-worth, and provide a strong connection that may have been lacking in addiction.

However, there is a good reason why most experts discourage people new in recovery from getting involved in relationships. Not only are some of the situations and feelings difficult to handle, but they may also lead to relapse.

Addiction is an equal opportunity destroyer of lives and relationships. It impacts men and women of all ages as well as all ethnicities and people from every income level. There is a difference, however, in the way some women approach recovery. This is particularly the case if there is a past history of early life trauma.

According to Psychology Today, when these early traumas are unaddressed in addiction treatment, female addicts face greater challenges in recovery. They may try to maintain relationships with people who still drink or use, avoid supportive relationships with other women, and get involved in new relationships quickly. There remains a tendency to repeat a history of sexual relationships, even giving those partnerships higher priority than recovery.

How to Handle Heartbreak in Florida Drug Rehab

Some people who enter recovery are also simultaneously dealing with heartbreak from a broken relationship. Perhaps a spouse or longtime partner has finally had enough and walked out the door. This is a lot to deal with at once, but it is not impossible. Some of the things that you can do to survive this heartbreak and avoid relapse include:

  • Talk about it. Keeping feelings bottled up will get you drunk or high. Instead, talk about how you are feeling as much as necessary.
  • Write about it. Another useful tool to let go of hurt and identify feelings is journaling.
  • Stay active. Avoid isolating yourself, and instead get active with new friends in recovery as much as possible. Go to social events even if you do not feel like it. Eventually, you will.
  • Exercise, rest, and eat right. Take care of your body, and the mind and heart will follow. Get daily exercise, eat healthy meals, and sleep regular hours.
  • Try something new. If you are not sure what to do with yourself, try something new. Pick a new hobby or ask a friend if you can tag along and try out theirs.

Get Help for Substance Abuse in Florida Now

Getting past a heartbreak in recovery is essential and more than possible with the support that is available. What is equally vital is making sure that you do not return to the same destructive practices that might produce further heartbreak in the future. You can only control yourself, and early recovery is a good time to get started on that process.

The good news is that, provided you take suggestions and avoid new relationships for awhile, you will have the opportunity to explore any intimacy issues and re-assess old ideas in Florida drug rehab. The Orlando Recovery Center offers holistic addiction treatment programs that are tailored to the needs of each client. Contact us now to speak with one of our addiction specialists about admissions.

Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.