People recovering from addiction often acknowledge the need for complete change in lifestyle and mindset. The recovery process is continuous and challenging, but with dedication and a willingness to change, it is possible. Adopting new behaviors, engaging in meaningful activities and finding healthy resources increase the likelihood of achieving long-term sobriety. Gratitude is an essential component of this process, helping individuals appreciate their progress and stay motivated. By incorporating gratitude, individuals in recovery can better appreciate the progress they have made and the blessings in their lives.

Incorporating gratitude into the recovery process can be a powerful tool for individuals seeking sobriety. It helps shift the focus from the negativity of addiction to the positivity and possibilities of a sober life. By practicing gratitude, individuals in recovery can cultivate a mindset of appreciation, which can help them navigate through challenges and setbacks with resilience and determination. Ultimately, gratitude and sobriety are linked, contributing to overall well-being and happiness and providing a solid foundation for maintaining abstinence in the long term.

Incorporating gratitude into the recovery process encourages individuals to take responsibility for their actions and appreciate the opportunities for growth and transformation that sobriety offers. It fosters a positive mindset, appreciation for progress, humility and accountability. It also motivates those in recovery to extend kindness not only to those who have supported them, but also to themselves.

Here are some ideas for supporting a shift into a gratitude mindset:

• Start a gratitude journal to highlight appreciation for the progress you are making toward sobriety.
• Write three things that you did to sustain a healthy lifestyle.
• Take a moment to reflect on the good things that are happening in your life.
• Talk to others about your progress, share your thoughts and have conversations about what you are grateful for.
• Acknowledge the progress you are making, including the baby steps, and appreciate the journey you are on.

Remember that living a life with gratitude takes practice and requires dedication and time to make the shift. In addition to improving your sobriety journey, the practice of gratitude has an overall positive impact on mental wellness, physical wellness, improved overall life satisfaction and relationships.

Psychological Services Bureau (PSB) addresses varying degrees of alcohol and drug abuse issues that adversely affect Department members and their families. In 1975, members of the Sheriff’s Department and the LAPD developed the Peace Officer’s Fellowship to advance the 12-step program begun by Alcoholics Anonymous in an environment for and by law enforcement personnel. Since then, the Department has assisted employees with various issues related to abuse and dependence of substances such as alcohol or prescription medicines. The Substance Abuse Resource Program coordinator and the psychologists at PSB are committed to assisting all employees with making appropriate choices to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Call us at (213) 738-3500 if you wish to locate more information regarding treatment facilities or other resources.