Do You Have to Be Kind to Stay Sober?

In firefighting, kindness is not exactly on the job description, but without empathy, it is impossible to do the job well. If you are a firefighter in recovery, then you may find that your level of kindness runs far deeper than it did during active addiction. Not only can this improve the lives of others, but it can contribute to your ability to stay sober as well.

On November 13th, the world takes a pause for World Kindness Day, and for firefighters in recovery, it is a good reminder that kindness is a skill that can be developed with practice over time — a skill that it is essential in recovery.

• Kindness involves mindfulness practice. Being kind requires being awake and aware, living actively in each moment. If you are worrying about something that is upcoming or upset about something in the past, you will have little time and energy to give to the people who are in your presence, and you likely will not respond kindly when you have the opportunity to do so.
• Kindness help you to make the “next right choice.” It is often too overwhelming to sit in this moment and contemplate staying sober for the rest of your life. For this reason, it is recommended that you stay focused just on today, this hour, this minute. When you are faced with a choice, your only job is to make the decision that will help you to stay sober for the next five minutes. Choosing to be kind is choosing to be sober.
• Kindness is a self-confidence boost: Being kind to others is a rarity, especially when it comes to dealing with people we do not know. It is so rare and unexpected that many react with surprise and gratitude, and it can give you a boost to know that people appreciate your efforts.
• Practicing kindness is good karma. No matter what you believe our purpose is on this earth and what impact our choices have on the big picture, it is clear that when we are kind to other people, it breeds more kindness. When you allow generosity to guide your dealings with the people around you, they are more likely to do the same. It’s infectious, and when you live in a positive environment, you are more likely to stay sober.

Be Kind to Yourself

If you are struggling as a result of a trauma-related disorder, and you are drinking heavily or using other substances in an attempt to manage the symptoms, your first act of kindness must be directed at yourself. Experiencing distress due to trauma is not uncommon, and you owe it to yourself to connect with treatment services that can have a genuine impact on your ability to feel safe and comfortable.

At American Addiction Centers, we offer a First Responder Lifeline Program, a unique program that is tailored to meet the needs of first responders in need of addiction and mental health treatment. For you, this means access to:

• PTSD assessment
• A unique treatment plan based on a thorough evaluation and assessment process
• Research-based treatment and therapies that have been shown to be effective in the treatment of PTSD and trauma-related disorders
• Family support and assistance
• Reintegration help

Learn more about how American Addiction Centers can help you overcome addiction today. Call now at (866) 53-SOBER