As someone living with HIV, cancer, TB, and having had a heart attack, I discovered numerous benefits from leading a sober lifestyle. Some of these benefits include:

By Cindy Pivacic.

1. Improved health: By avoiding alcohol and other harmful substances, my body was able to better fight off infections and recover from my illnesses. My overall health has greatly improved since I became sober.

2. Better relationships: My relationships with family and friends have improved since I chose a sober lifestyle. I am able to have clearer and more meaningful conversations with those closest to me.

3. Increased energy and focus: Abstinence has given me more energy and focus. I am able to work harder, be more productive, and make the most of each day.

4. Increased self-esteem: My self-esteem has improved as I have become more confident in my ability to make positive changes in my life. I am able to cope with stress and have found healthy and fulfilling ways to manage my emotions.

5. Better sleep: My sleep has improved since I decided on abstinence. I am able to fall asleep more easily, sleep more deeply, and wake up feeling refreshed and energized.

6. Financial stability: Living a substance-free life has allowed me to save money that I previously spent on these unhealthy habits. This extra money can be used to pay for medical expenses or be put towards other important life goals.

7. Increased longevity: My new and upgraded lifestyle has also improved my chances of living a longer, healthier life. By avoiding harmful substances, I have reduced my risk of developing additional illnesses and complications.

PS: Either a Pro or Con, you decide. I am ALWAYS voted as the designated driver!  

Initially I stopped smoking years before any of my chronic challenges. I am into my twenty-first year of abstinence. I stopped consuming alcohol prior to my cancer diagnosis, mainly because the alcohol burnt my tongue, and once my chemotherapy ended, never resumed the habit.

Keep in mind that certain pleasures in moderation are okay. I choose not to partake and would suggest that anyone who is a prolific substance user and wants to change to a life of abstinence talk to their health worker, who can assist in a programme to ‘wean’ you off detrimental substances.

In conclusion, my sober lifestyle has brought me many benefits, including improved health, better relationships, increased energy and focus, elevated self-esteem, better sleep, financial benefits and increased longevity. So, as to the question, “Is a sober life possible” the answer is a resounding YES!

A chronic condition can affect anyone. How you manage it is what makes the difference.

You can get cover of up to 3 million rand for your chronic health condition and up to 10 million if you are living with HIV.

SMS CHRONIC to 33857 to find out more. 

I did!

Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure, and is not a substitute for professional consultation with a health professional.

We believe all South Africans should have Life Cover.

Another first from AllLife who have always believed that all South Africans should have Life Cover, regardless of their health.

You are guaranteed a minimum of R 3 Million Life Cover without any medical test, but you could qualify for up to R 10 Million depending on your circumstances.

Life Cover to secure your family financially when they need it most.

• No medicals for Life Cover for up to R 3 million
• Life cover for people between the ages of 18 – 75
• Paperless application
• Unlimited beneficiaries

All it takes is one phone call, and you could be covered today.