Experimenting with substances can sometimes lead to unexpected outcomes, so it’s important to have the knowledge and tools to navigate these situations safely. At Haven House, our goal is to educate and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being and understand the effects of substances on their minds, bodies, and overall health.
We’re not here to dissuade people from experimentation — that would be impossible. If you’re going to experiment, you’re going to experiment. Our hope is to provide guardrails for doing it as responsibly as possible and with constant mindfulness on whether your usage becomes frequent, dependent, and has negative consequences for you and those around you.
Let’s discuss some easy ways you can sober up from being high.
How Does Being High Affect the Body?
Being high can have various effects on your mind and body, especially if it’s your first experience. It’s important to understand and acknowledge these effects to take the necessary steps toward sobering up.
When you’re high, your judgment may be impaired, and it can hinder your ability to function effectively. It’s important to prioritize your personal safety and well-being, as well as the well-being of those around you. Remember, seeking sobriety after being high is a responsible choice that demonstrates your commitment to taking control of your actions.
How Can You Sober Up From Being High?
If you’ve gotten high and want to come down, there are some ways to get sober. By following these strategies, you can regain clarity, restore balance in your life, and move forward on your path toward a brighter future. Remember, change is possible, and with the right tools and support, you can overcome any obstacles in your way.
Find a Calm Environment
When it comes to sobering up from being high, finding a calm environment is key. Finding a quiet space where you can relax and focus on your well-being helps you center your thoughts and emotions, helping you better navigate the process of sobering up.
Whether it’s your own home, a trusted friend’s place, or a room where you feel at ease, having a serene environment can make a significant difference.
Stay Hydrated
When under the influence of certain substances, our bodies can become dehydrated. Drinking plenty of water or natural juices can aid in rehydration and flushing out toxins from your system.
Electrolytes are key, as those are the first to be depleted when putting your body through stress. When you’re rehydrating, you may also want to drink small sips regularly rather than chugging large quantities at once, as this could cause nausea.
While it may be tempting to reach for something a little sweeter, you may want to avoid caffeinated or sugary beverages. These can further dehydrate your body, as well as stimulate the mind, which in turn can lead to anxiety or paranoia.
Instead, opt for water infused with fresh fruits or herbal teas. Coconut water is also an excellent choice since it contains natural electrolytes that can help with rehydration.
Get Some Fresh Air and Move Your Body
Stepping outside and getting some fresh air can work wonders for sobering up. The combination of natural light, fresh oxygen, and a change of scenery can help clear your mind and rejuvenate your senses.
Try taking a short walk around a nearby park, beach, or any outdoor area that brings you joy. Engaging in light physical activity can also help stimulate your body and mind, helping to move the sobering-up process along. Stretching or doing a few simple exercises can also help release tension and boost your energy levels.
Remember, the goal is not to get intense exercise or push your limits — it’s about gentle movement and reconnecting with your body. Getting some fresh air and engaging in light physical activity can provide a positive distraction and an opportunity to reset.
Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
One of the most effective ways to calm your mind and reduce anxiety while sobering up is through deep breathing and relaxation techniques. Focusing on your breath can help ground you in the present moment and encourage a sense of inner peace.
To practice deep breathing, find a comfortable seated position or lie down, close your eyes, and take a slow, deep breath in through your nose. Feel your diaphragm expand as you inhale, then slowly exhale through your mouth, letting go of any tension or stress. Repeat this process several times, allowing your breath to become slower and more relaxed with each repetition.
Other relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation and meditation, can also help encourage calm and clarity. Progressive muscle relaxation involves tensing and releasing specific muscle groups one by one, supporting a deep sense of relaxation. Meditation, on the other hand, encourages the quieting of the mind, allowing you to observe your thoughts without judgment and find inner stillness.
If you’re new to meditation, focus first on simple breathing techniques. Diving into meditation as a beginner while you’re high could cause you to become overly aware of your racing mind. That’ll only make you more anxious, which is what we’re trying to avoid.
By incorporating these breathing and relaxation techniques into your sobering-up routine, you can gently guide your mind and body toward balance.
Nourish Your Body With Healthy Foods
Proper nutrition plays a key role in restoring balance to your body when sobering up. Consuming nutrient-rich foods can provide the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs to regain balance after your high. To give your body the support it needs, you can aim for a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and hydration, which can help replenish vital nutrients and support the detoxification process. Berries, leafy greens, citrus fruits, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower are excellent choices.
Meanwhile, whole grains such as oats, quinoa, and brown rice provide energy. Finally, lean proteins like chicken, turkey, legumes, and fish encourage muscle repair and overall well-being.
Consider easy-to-prepare snacks like a fruit and yogurt parfait, a colorful salad with grilled chicken, or a veggie stir-fry with whole grain noodles. By nourishing your body with wholesome foods, you’re giving yourself the best chance to recover and feel your best.
If you’re getting high just make sure to get something in your stomach.
Check Your Relationship With Further Substance Use
One of the most important elements of sobering up is avoiding further substance use. Combining substances can lead to unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects on your mind, body, and overall health. Continuing to use substances can also extend your high and make it more challenging to regain clarity.
It’s important to understand the risks associated with polydrug use and make a conscious choice to abstain from any additional substances. Remember, the goal isn’t just sobriety after this high, but sobriety for the long term.
That said, here are some warning signs that you might be experiencing a substance problem:
- You cannot stop
- You find that the urge to use consistently is strong
- You only use when you’re alone
- You use to avoid feelings, memories, or specific events (personal losses, for example)
- Your use causes you to miss work, and cancel on people
- You’re forgetting to shower, brush your teeth, and eat
If any of these are true, it might be wise to seek therapy to address those underlying issues before drug or alcohol use becomes your sole coping mechanism.
The Bottom Line
In this article, we’ve explored valuable tips and tricks to help you sober up from being high.
If you find that you are having a hard time resisting temptation, it’s important to lean on the support of others. Reaching out to loved ones who can provide encouragement, understanding, and a listening ear can make all the difference in staying sober.
There are also helplines, support groups, and online communities dedicated to addiction recovery. These resources can offer guidance, encouragement, and an understanding community to connect with.
You don’t have to face the challenges of sobering up alone. If you feel the need for professional assistance, don’t hesitate to seek support from addiction treatment centers like Haven House. We offer a range of services, such as medically managed detox, residential treatment, sober living, and support for traumatic brain injuries.
Recovery is possible, and at Haven House, our mission is to support individuals in overcoming addiction and finding their paths to recovery. Reach out today, and let us help you on your journey to sobriety.
Sources:
Antioxidants: Protecting Healthy Cells | Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Meditation: What It Is, Benefits & Types | Cleveland Clinic
