9 Hobbies to Help You Overcome Alcohol Use Disorder

When you’re in recovery from an alcohol addiction, staying busy and active is key to maintaining your sobriety. Engaging in enjoyable hobbies can help you to establish healthy habits and prevent relapse triggers such as boredom, loneliness, and anger. If you’re looking for a new, sober activity to keep you entertained and help you overcome alcohol addiction, here are nine options to choose from.

1. Running

Running gets you out in the fresh air, improves your cardiovascular health, and releases endorphins that make you feel good. If you’ve never run before, start slowly to avoid injury and overexertion. Join a club to make running buddies, and set a goal to work towards, such as competing in a 5K.

2. Arts and Crafts

Painting, knitting, sculpture, decoupage: all of these hobbies allow you to make something tangible using your hands and your creativity. Crafting is a perfect way to keep both your body and your brain fully engaged. Search for classes at local adult schools or art studios, and see if anything strikes your fancy.

3. Cooking a Meal

Trying new recipes can be like an adventure, presenting new tastes and sensations with every meal. Go to farmers’ markets and challenge yourself to plan your meals around the latest seasonal offerings. Expand your skill set by taking cooking classes to learn new techniques and dishes.

4. Photography

Taking pictures allows you to step outside yourself and be an observer in your environment. You don’t need fancy equipment – just a simple camera and a keen eye. Go on nature walks, or just stroll your neighborhood, looking for a unique angle on ordinary settings.

5. Team Sports

Whether you’re interested in a traditional sport like softball or soccer, or something fun and offbeat like ultimate Frisbee or kickball, team sports are a great way to make new friends while getting lots of exercise – in an alcohol-free environment.

6. Gardening

Even if your only outdoor space is a tiny patio, you can still get creative with your very own garden. Designing the layout, sowing the seeds, and tending to plants and flowers can be a meditative activity with a fulfilling and beautiful result.

7. Reading a Book

There’s no better way to distract yourself than to get lost in a story. Browse the shelves of your local library and find a genre that interests you – be it self-help, romance, or memoir. Join a neighborhood book club to discuss what you’ve read, and connect with other bookworms to find recommendations for future reading.

8. Journaling

Whether you start an art journal or a bullet journal, writing down all your thoughts, fears, hopes, and desires can be rewarding in more ways than one. In a private journal, you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. For inspiration, check out layouts and content ideas on Pinterest.

9. Volunteering for Community Service

Community service is a great way to establish connections with others and develop a sense of purpose in your life. Find a cause that’s important to you – whether it’s homelessness or civil rights – and apply for volunteer opportunities at local non-profits.

Alcohol Treatment at The Pearson Center in San Diego

There’s so much for you to see, do, and explore with your newfound sobriety. Building a meaningful life with fulfilling hobbies is an important part of overcoming alcohol addiction. If you find yourself struggling to say no to alcohol, reach out for help. You’re not alone in your journey toward a satisfying, sober life. Give us a call at (858) 784-7867.