Coping with a Drunk Driving Charge: Tips for Preserving Your Wellbeing

This article is a collaboration between DUI.org and Brian T. Davis, a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and Founder/Director of New Directions Assessments.

Dealing with the aftermath of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge can be a daunting and emotionally challenging experience. Not only does it come with legal difficulties, but it can also have an impact on your mental and emotional health.

We at DUI.org understand the heavy emotions you might be experiencing, and our team strives to help you more easily overcome this temporary setback. With that in mind, here are some helpful tips to preserve your mental and emotional wellbeing during this challenging time:

Acknowledge Your Feelings

Take time to reflect on your emotions and understand that it's normal to feel a mix of guilt, shame, anxiety, anger, or sadness. Intentionally get away from the busyness of your day or sit in a quiet place outdoors. Perhaps writing down your thoughts or talking to someone you trust about how you're feeling, will help you early in the process as well as later. Consider keeping what you write down in a journal to track how your thoughts and emotions progress over time. Things will improve emotionally and seeing the improvement in black and white often enhances your progress.

Avoid Negative Self-Talk

Negative thoughts can develop into a powerful pattern, which can wreak havoc on our mental wellbeing. Challenge negative thoughts by practicing positive affirmations. For example, instead of saying, "I'm a terrible person for what I did," say, "I made a mistake, but I'm capable of learning and growing from it." Engage in activities that boost your self-esteem, such as pursuing hobbies you enjoy or setting achievable goals.

Stay Connected

Schedule regular check-ins with supportive friends or family members. Joining a support group or participating in online communities related to DUI recovery can also provide a sense of belonging and understanding. Consider volunteering or helping others to foster positive connections and contribute to your community.

“Sometimes a hard stumble is the route to great change and success.”
- Brian T. Davis, Substance Abuse Professional

Practice Self-Care

Develop a self-care routine that includes activities like exercise, mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or creative outlets such as art or music. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Prioritize getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and staying hydrated to support your overall well-being. Lastly, if you have ever enjoyed reading books, (fiction, non-fiction, or self-help) consider heading to the library or a good bookstore to find something to shift your mental and emotional perspective.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you're struggling to cope with the emotional impact of a DUI charge, don't hesitate to seek professional support. Reach out to a licensed therapist or counselor who specializes in substance abuse or mental health. They can provide personalized strategies to help you manage stress, improve coping skills, and work through any underlying issues contributing to your emotions. Specialized life coaches are another affordable option if you aren’t having problems with depression or anxiety but want help changing habits or reaching a new goal.

Remember that while a DUI charge can be a challenging experience, it doesn't define who you are as a person. Everyone deserves a chance to learn and grow from their mistakes.

Brian Davis has seen many examples of people using their drunk driving experience as motivation for self-improvement. “While a DUI can be emotionally devastating, we have literally seen hundreds of people let the experience become a catalyst to make profound changes in their life direction, in turn leading to successes beyond what they previously couldn’t even imagine. Sometimes a hard stumble is the route to great change and success,” says Davis.

Please remember: your mental health is important, and it's okay to ask for help when you need it. Stay resilient, stay positive, and take proactive steps towards a brighter future.

For more assistance visit:

• New Directions Assessments: https://ndassessments.com/
• Directions Counseling & Coaching: https://www.directionscounseling.com/

About the Co-Author

Brian Davis is the Founder and Executive Director of Directions Counseling & Coaching in Powell Ohio and New Directions Assessments, a national mental health and substance use assessment website service. His teams enlist the talent, compassion, and experience of over 35 therapists and coaches who have been providing assessment, therapy, and coaching services to individuals, children, families, companies, and courts nationwide for over 30 years.