Choosing if you’re at the right place in life to date and potentially share the intimate details of your inner world with another person in a relationship is a big undertaking, but especially so for someone new to recovery. Depending on where you are on your journey, you may feel unsure if you are ready to put your newly sober self out there. When trying to decide if now is the best time to start dating again and still be successful in recovery, begin by asking yourself a few of these questions.
Am I Ready?
Dating and relationships carry with them a mixed bag of emotions. Emotional disappointments are inevitable in all relationships, so you have to be sure that you are at the place in recovery where you feel you can handle any ups or downs without turning to substances for comfort if you wish to be successful in staying clean. Being in recovery is naturally a huge deal in your life, so ask yourself if you are truly ready to be upfront and honest about your recovery and the struggles of committing to sobriety.
Can I Contribute to Creating a Healthy Relationship?
For many in recovery, previous relationships may have been negatively affected by their addiction or even been the cause of their addiction entirely. Unfortunately, for those in recovery, unhealthy, co-dependent relationships are all too familiar. Take the time to be honest with yourself about if you have worked through enough of your emotional baggage to not prevent yourself from being your most supportive, loving self and tend to any issues that have gone unaddressed.
What Are My Dating Boundaries?
Boundaries are important to the many different relationships in a recovering addict’s life, but especially so in their romantic relationships. Decide if you are comfortable dating a person who drinks or uses other substances in front of you before you get into any compromising situations. Proper boundaries are founded on good communication, so think about what your needs and limits are and prepare to communicate them effectively. Without proper boundaries, issues like codependency can crop up.
Choosing to start dating again after beginning recovery is a big decision. Relationships can bring up many of the emotional wounds that may have been a contributing factor in your addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling to get or remain sober, consider contacting Avalon Malibu. Avalon is a leading substance abuse treatment center in Southern California where effective, individualized care is our top priority. Let our licensed, experienced staff help you find the right treatment that promotes lasting recovery for you. Call us at (844) 857-5992 to find out more.
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