5 Money Management Tips for Recovering Substance Abusers
Recovery means more than just getting sober. Often, a recovering substance abuser needs to work on developing stronger money management skills after addiction has led to job loss, credit card debt, or savings depletion. As you begin repairing your finances and restoring your financial future, remember these important tips:
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Hold yourself accountable.
- In the early days of rehab, it’s smart to maintain close contact with your recovery sponsor. Ask him or her to check in on you after each payday to make sure you’re staying on track financially. If you have a trusted friend or family member who is willing to help, ask them to monitor your finances as well.
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Don’t use shopping as a reward.
- During the early stages of sobriety, individuals may find themselves seeking thrills in the form of reckless spending on designer clothes, expensive restaurant meals, or other non-essentials. Put yourself on a strict budget for all of your discretionary spending, and leave credit cards at home so you aren’t tempted to use them.
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Remove unnecessary temptation.
- If you’re worried that having unlimited access to money will make it difficult to resist the urge to use again, set up automatic payments for your monthly bills. Find out if your employer allows you to auto-draft a portion of your check directly into a separate savings account. Keep the savings account at a bank across town with no debit card or ATM access.
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If you’re in debt, seek help.
- Being in debt creates stress and anxiety that may trigger an urge to relapse. If you’re struggling financially, don’t be afraid to seek help from a professional who can work with you to get back on track. Depending on your circumstances, bankruptcy or repayment plans may be recommended to give you a fresh start.
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Focus on your future.
- When you’re recovering from addiction, you are just thinking about making it through the day. A lasting recovery requires you to focus on building a brighter future. Come up with financial goals for yourself, such as saving for a well-deserved vacation, a new car, or home improvements. Saving for a specific purpose helps hone your newfound ability to take control of your life.
Coast to Coast Recovery knows that getting sober is a daily battle. We offer a wide range of post-treatment support options, including extended care facilities and outpatient support groups. Call 800-210-8229 to learn more.
