Items to Carry for Support During Tough Moments

Recovery is a journey filled with highs and lows, and having tangible items with you can provide comfort, strength, and grounding during difficult times. Whether you’re facing cravings, stress, or moments of doubt, carrying certain items can serve as a reminder of your commitment to sobriety and help you navigate tough situations. Here’s a list of essential items to keep with you for support whenever you need it.

1. A Sobriety Token or Chip

A physical reminder of your journey and achievements.
Reinforces your commitment to staying sober.
Can serve as a grounding object during stressful moments.

2. A Pocket Journal or Notebook

Allows you to jot down feelings, triggers, or gratitude lists.
Helps you track progress and reflect on growth.
Provides a space to write down coping strategies for when cravings arise.

3. Inspirational Quotes or Affirmation Cards

Keep a small set of positive affirmations to read when struggling.
Quotes that resonate with your sobriety journey can boost motivation.
Reminds you of your inner strength and resilience.

4. A Comforting Object (Fidget Item, Stone, or Bead Bracelet)

A small, soothing item can serve as a physical anchor.
Helps redirect nervous energy and reduce anxiety.
Can act as a mindfulness tool to keep you present in the moment.

5. Essential Oils or Aromatherapy Rollers

Lavender, peppermint, or citrus scents can help with relaxation and grounding.
Smelling a familiar, calming scent can ease stress and cravings.
Portable and easy to use in any situation.

6. A List of Emergency Contacts

Include phone numbers of sponsors, sober friends, or therapists.
Helps you reach out for support when feeling overwhelmed.
Acts as a reminder that you’re not alone in your journey.

7. Chewing Gum or Hard Candy

Can provide a distraction during cravings or moments of anxiety.
Keeps your mouth busy and helps break habitual triggers.
Helps with mindfulness by focusing on a simple activity.

8. A Small Book or Pocket-Sized Recovery Read

Books like The Daily Stoic or The Big Book can provide wisdom and guidance.
Reading recovery-focused material can help shift your mindset.
Keeps you focused on your goals and personal growth.

9. A Mindfulness App or Music Playlist on Your Phone

Meditation and relaxation apps like Headspace or Calm can help with stress relief.
Listening to calming or uplifting music can shift your mood.
Audiobooks or podcasts on recovery can provide inspiration on the go.

10. A Small Water Bottle

Staying hydrated can help curb cravings and improve overall well-being.
Drinking water can serve as a simple mindfulness exercise.
Helps with overall health and energy levels.

11. A Personal Letter to Yourself

Write a letter to your future self about why you chose sobriety.
Include reminders of how far you’ve come and why you don’t want to go back.
Reading it during difficult moments can help reinforce your commitment.

12. A Stress Ball or Hand Grip Exerciser

Helps release tension and nervous energy.
A physical activity that redirects focus and relieves anxiety.
Easily portable and can be used discreetly in any setting.

13. A Sobriety Reminder Card

A small card listing reasons for staying sober.
Can include personal affirmations, quotes, or coping strategies.
Serves as an immediate source of encouragement in tough moments.

Inspirational Quotes for Strength and Resilience

“One day at a time.” – AA Slogan

“You are stronger than you think, braver than you believe, and more resilient than you know.” – Unknown

“Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day.” – Alice Morse Earle

“Your recovery is a journey, not a destination.” – Unknown

“The comeback is always stronger than the setback.” – Unknown

“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” – Confucius

“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” – C.S. Lewis

“You don’t have to control your thoughts; you just have to stop letting them control you.” – Dan Millman

“Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” – J.K. Rowling

“Small progress is still progress.” – Unknown

Picture This

Imagine reaching into your pocket during a stressful moment and finding a small note with words of encouragement. You take a deep breath, roll some calming essential oil onto your wrist, and hold onto your sobriety token, reminding yourself how far you’ve come. As you sip water and listen to a favorite song, the craving passes, and you feel grounded again. These small tools may seem simple, but they have the power to bring you back to the present and remind you of your strength. Can you see yourself carrying a few of these items to help you stay strong on your journey?

Please Share This Article

If you found this guide helpful, please share it with someone who may benefit from having their own sobriety support items. A small reminder can make a big difference in someone’s journey.