Do you know what it means to be California sober? This current fad can be tempting for those who have just completed a recovery program, but it is a dangerous option that could harm your sobriety. It is important to focus on evidence-based treatments and professional support when struggling with addiction and mental health issues. This may include therapy, medication, support groups, and other resources that have been proven effective in helping individuals maintain long-term sobriety.
If you’re struggling with addiction, call Evoke Wellness at Waltham at 866.276.1920 to ask about our sober living program in Waltham, MA.
California Sober: What Does It Mean?
Being California sober will mean something different depending on who you ask. That said, the basic idea is to cut out certain addictive substances and substitute them with less dangerous alternatives.
It’s not difficult to see why California sober is a misnomer—using any mind-altering substance is not actually being sober. Some examples include using marijuana as an alternative to drinking alcohol or sticking with alcohol and marijuana in moderation but not doing anything stronger.
For people who are in recovery, being California sober can seem like a good way to curb cravings and cope with the stresses of sobriety. However, it’s common for people to substitute one addiction with another.
Those who substitute drinking with marijuana often end up falling back on alcohol. Marijuana itself can be addictive and lead to all manner of negative consequences. For instance, marijuana use can cause:
- Concentration issues
- Short memory loss
- Lung cancer
- Short-term impairment of your judgment
- Irritability
- Sleeping problems
- Anxiety
- Depression
Marijuana could lead to addiction if you use it for a long time, causing you to experience cravings and even withdrawal symptoms.
The Dangers of Being Semi-Sober
One of the dangers you face if you are semi-sober or following a California sober path, is that there is no clear definition of what using in moderation means. Because it varies from person to person, changing the rules is easy. Allowing yourself that extra cocktail doesn’t take much persuasion.
For some people, having just one drink or using just a bit of marijuana could be possible. But for those who have struggled with addiction, it can be very easy to fall back into old patterns.
Those who still want to try being California sober must have clear rules for themselves and not allow any deviation from them. That’s easier said than done, however, when dopamine floods your brain after a drink and urges you to have another.
Adjusting to Sobriety: How to Manage Your Daily Life Without Substances
If you’ve completed a treatment program, adjusting to sobriety in your daily life isn’t easy. There may be all kinds of challenges that you have to face while reinforcing your abstinence. Know that you don’t have to be California sober to live a fulfilling, healthy, and happy life after recovering from an addiction.
You have to remember that recovery can be isolating. Isolation, in turn, can cause mental health concerns and potentially trigger you to start using again. Joining support groups and reaching out to loved ones can be essential throughout your recovery process.
Many people find it helpful to turn to extended care or alumni programs. These allow you to continue getting a dependable level of support and keep you motivated. Learning relapse prevention strategies also makes a difference. They give you actionable steps you can take if you find yourself struggling.
Call Evoke Wellness at Waltham for Support with Continuing Your Recovery
If you’ve completed an addiction treatment program, sticking to your sobriety could mean avoiding fads like being California sober. It could also involve focusing on staying away from substances that risk putting all your recovery efforts in danger.
At Evoke Wellness at Waltham, we provide extended treatment, alumni, and sober living programs to help people who are worried about being able to stay sober and who want a bit more support. Please speak with one of our experts by calling Evoke Wellness at Waltham at 866.276.1920 or contacting us online with any questions.
