It is of no surprise that in recovery, we are drawn to toxic relationships. Perhaps they are relationships we were in before we started working a recovery program, or maybe we met them after. Even when working in a good program, we can still find ourselves in toxic relationships; we are not immune just because we follow the 12-steps.

If you need treatment right now, then New Dimensions Day Treatment is a mental health and substance abuse recovery center that can help you NOW! Get the treatment you need and take the necessary time to work on yourself. The team can provide help to those when they need it most. You will learn why you make choices that may be unhealthy for you, including choosing relationships that are not positively benefiting you.
This article will talk about tools you can use to move on from a toxic relationship. They are best for those who have taken both the step to end the relationship and simultaneously working on self-improvement.

Go No Contact

If you do not have children, then it is best to go no contact with the person once the relationship has ended. This is especially true if they were in any way abusive. It is tempting to keep a door open somewhere, whether Facebook, email, or text, but try to block all avenues of communication.
Pulling the plug on all is easiest. If you don’t, it just prolongs the pain, and you may end up seeing something you don’t want to know if you leave an avenue open.

List All the Things You Disliked About Your Ex

Write down all the hurtful things, toxic traits, the ways your ex was bringing more harm than good. Though you may have love for your ex, if you can recognize the negative, it may help re-read it when you are having difficulties and having thoughts of returning to the relationship.
You can even list little annoying traits like chewing loudly or always drinking the last of the coke in the fridge. Anything negative- write it down. Keep this list to refer back to whenever necessary.

Keep Yourself Occupied

Depending on where you are in your healing, you may not be ready for any new hobbies. If not, throw yourself into existing hobbies. For me, when my last toxic relationship ended, I wrote, did barre workouts every morning, volunteered, and attended AA meetings daily—anything to keep my mind busy.
I’d tell myself I’m keeping my mind and body fit for myself and the next person I meet. I want to be spiritually and emotionally fit for myself and them. It was much more productive than sulking in bed and watching movies, accomplishing very little, so it made me proud.
If you find the motivation, then yes, now is a great time to start something new! New workout, unique volunteer experience, or a new hobby! You have time, and you may meet some great new people as well.

Surround Yourself with People You Love

Surrounding myself with people who loved me saved me after my last relationship ended. I spent a lot of time walking with my mom and having long conversations with her on her couch.
Be with your best friend or spend time with your kids—anything but isolating from the world.

Take a Little Time to Grieve

Take some time to cry. It would help if you let your emotions process. Just don’t let that be all you do, and don’t let it interfere with your productivity. Set aside a time and an end time for crying and letting it out.
Journal through the grief if that is helpful for you. Also, process it in therapy if you are currently seeing a therapist. Speaking of therapy…..

What is a Physician-Owned Rehabilitation Center?

North Star Detox and Drug Rehab Center of Los Angeles is owned and operated by a medical doctor. Physician driven treatment ensures you receive the highest quality of care, with particular attention to patient safety. Our treatment approach is evidence-based, and our standards must meet those achieved by other licensed physicians in the medical field.

Talk to a Therapist

Now is the time to process why you were in a toxic relationship. What drew you to this individual? What needs to heal in you, so it doesn’t happen again? What does an ideal partner look like? What can get you to a healthy relationship?
A good therapist can help you discover yourself, work on self-confidence, and help you reach your goals to find healthy love.

Date Again…. With Caution

Take some time to be alone but don’t be afraid to date again once time has passed. It’s ok to date again when you are ready but be careful. Know when you are prepared and know what you are looking for when you date. Is it something casual or something long-term? Make sure your partner shares the same goals.
The following person you date should be healthy and trustworthy regardless of whether you date casually or long-term. That is a necessary trait to sustain your recovery. If you can’t trust the person, you start to feel uneasy. Worse, if abuse comes into the picture, your sobriety can be at risk. No one is worth this risk.

Find Happiness in Life!

Your happiness is dependent on you and not on your relationships. Find what that means for you! There are a few suggestions, though, to have happiness:

• Surround yourself with happy and healthy people
• Motivational Interviewing
• Nourish yourself with good food
• Meditate
• Attend 12 step meetings
• Exercise or walk daily
• Be out in nature
• Find at least one hobby you love
• Seek professional help if you need too

Where Can I Find Out More Information on Mental Health Helf if I Need it?

New Dimensions Day Treatment is a mental health and substance abuse recovery center that can get you on the road to recovery!
You can get treatment and take the time to work on yourself to have thriving relationships in the future. With the help of professionals, you will learn how to make healthy choices, including those surrounding relationships, so that you can have trusted, loving, healthy relationships. Break free from the toxic relationship cycle today! We can help!