Going through the DUI process can add significant complications and stress to your life. Not only are you facing short-term consequences like fines, a license suspension, and even jail time, but you are also facing long-term consequences that can affect employment and your finances. And at a time when you need friends and family the most, you may find that your DUI conviction is causing strain on your relationships with family and friends. All of this can wreak havoc on your mental well-being.

It has been shown that there is a strong connection between a DUI and mental illness. Over half of the drivers charged with a DUI were also diagnosed with at least one mental illness after their conviction.

Learning how to deal with the stress associated with your DUI conviction is vital. This article will list some tips on dealing with the stress caused by a DUI so that you can come out on the other side mentally ready to move forward.

Go Easy on Yourself

You made a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes. There’s no reason to punish yourself forever. You may find that disappointment and guilt come in waves. But it’s important to remind yourself that you’ll make it through this. Be patient.

Do Your Research

The best way to handle the stress from a DUI is to stay informed on what’s going on. Doing your research and asking your attorney any questions you can think of will help you better understand the process, which will help to alleviate the stress of the situation by allowing you to regain a sense of control.

Have a Plan

You’re going to have a lot on your plate after your DUI conviction. Making a budget, a schedule, and preplanning your transportation options can help you rest easy knowing that everything is already planned out.

Reach Out to Family and Friends

The stress of a DUI can feel overwhelming, if not impossible, if you don’t have the necessary support from family and friends. Keep in touch with those who care about you and keep them involved in the process. Having the love and support from family and close friends will help you get through this phase in life.

Reconsider Your Circle of Friends

It’s essential to stay connected to family and friends during this time, but it’s also necessary to look at who you’ve been hanging out with. If you’ve been hanging out with the wrong people, making the choice now to make a change would be highly beneficial.

People who are constantly making bad choices or who exhibit dangerous behavior aren’t the people you need around you right now. You need to surround yourself with people with a positive outlook who will support you.

Evaluate Yourself

While looking at those around you, take some time to evaluate yourself. Do you have a drinking problem? Does alcoholism run in your family? Are you experiencing any extreme stress in your life? If you find that this DUI is more than one wrong decision, reach out to local treatment centers or support groups to get the help you need.

Explore New Interests

When you’ve been convicted of a DUI, you’ll likely feel like you have lost your independence. Using this time to explore something new that you’re interested in can be a healthy distraction from what you’re dealing with right now.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol is a natural depressant. And if you are already experiencing depression because of your conviction, adding alcohol to the mix can cause even more negative effects on your mental health. Cutting back on alcohol can not only help you manage the stress from your DUI better, but it will also help with your mood, energy, and sleep.

Eat Healthy and Exercise

Exercise releases endorphins and this natural high can help get you out of a funk. In addition, exercise and a healthy diet can help boost your mood and allow you to focus.

Let Jeremy Widder Law Help Alleviate Your Stress

Like any other negative experience you’ve had in life, you will also make it through this. And while the consequences of a DUI conviction can be harsh, they won’t last forever. Keeping busy, avoiding alcohol, and turning to family and friends for help will help you get through this trying time. But, most important, enlist the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

At Jeremy Widder Law, we know how stressful and overwhelmed you may feel right now. That’s why we are here to listen and advocate for you. We will be by your side from start to finish, ensuring that you get the legal representation you deserve. We will guide you through the legal system and ensure your rights and future are protected.

Contact us today, and let us put our years of experience to work for you.