Some Surprising Benefits of Sobriety

Everyone’s recovery journey is as unique as their motivations for getting sober in the first place. Many people tell stories of an event, person, or moment that made them realize they wanted to leave drugs and alcohol behind. Others share that they were ready for a sober life, while some had reached their personal “bottom.”

Yet all stories share one characteristic – they had a clear “why” or reason to put in the work and embark on what is often a difficult journey. Relationships, family, career, and a myriad of other reasons top the list of reasons people decide to get sober. In recovery, it’s common to hear about how much better they feel, or how their relationships have improved, but have you ever heard them brag about their sex life?

It’s true! Improved sex life is one of the lesser-touted benefits of sobriety. Sure, people feel emboldened under the influence, but often drugs and alcohol actually inhibit performance in the bedroom, reducing blood flow and nerve function in all the important places. Also, sober people report to being more present and therefore enjoying sex more than when they were inebriated.

Mental clarity is an oft-cited benefit of sobriety, but did you know it leads to renewed creativity and even new hobbies? It turns out that the image we have of tortured artists makes a good Hollywood story, but is less true in real life. People on their recovery journey share they are more creative than before and are more able to execute on their ideas; many even pick up new creative passions and hobbies.

If you have a sweet tooth, then you’ve likely been schooled about the alcohol and sugar connection – sugary drinks and late-night snacking can do a number on your eating habits. Wine, rum and Coke, and even a G&T all contain hefty amounts of sugar which works to make them so enticing. Walking away from alcohol will reduce your sugar intake and your cravings over time. We’re not saying you won’t still have a sweet tooth, but the reduction in sugar will be good for your health and your waistline.

Both men and women also say they can’t believe how much better their skin looks once they are sober. Alcohol and drugs are hard on the body, and once they are out of your system, the body starts to function better. Your liver, stomach, heart, and even vitamin absorption improve as do your hydration levels. And of course, added hydration helps to clean out the toxins from all your organs, including your skin.

Another surprising benefit of removing substances from your life is you’ll smell better. Seriously. As we mentioned, your skin is your largest organ, and when under the influence, your skin is helping to clear the toxins from your body through its surface. This is why people are said to wreak of alcohol. Also, your digestive system will be much happier which will lead to a happier GI system, and you know, less need to light a match. When your system has cleared the toxins from your body, everything begins running more smoothly.

There are countless benefits to embarking on a recovery journey ranging from the obvious to the surprising. Most importantly you will regain control and be able to make better choices for your life, career, finances, and relationships. It’s not easy, but it is worth it.

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance addiction, know that there is real, qualified help available for every income level. Reach out, ask for help, and know that getting sober is possible.