Arrested because DUI is never easy. You may have to deal with a suspended license, large fines, mandatory community service and a trial period. Along with the legal consequences of DUI, the guilt, shame, and worry that you feel after arrest related to DUI or DWI can overtake your life for days, weeks, or even months.
Although there are various legal steps that must be taken when dealing with DUI, it is very important to put your mental and emotional health at the top of your list of priorities. The mental afflictions you feel are very real, and they should be inclined. Here are four tips for dealing mentally and emotionally with DUI.
1. Talk To Your Lawyer
In a situation like this, everyone wants to know what’s in the store. If you are like me, knowing what you can expect even if you don’t like it is far better than being taken off guard on the road. For this reason, I recommend talking to your lawyer after the trial. A reputable and trusted DUI lawyer will go through this process many times and will be able to tell you what you can expect. I still remember how much talking to my Seattle DUI lawyer personally made me comfortable. Talking to my Seattle DUI lawyer allowed me to find out the facts and make a plan. Having an attack plan for future problems makes them easier to handle.
2. Discuss This Problem With Friends And Family
DUI is something that you must deal with on a personal and internal level. However, it is something that must be discussed with family and close friends. If you are convicted of DUI, there will be a part of your life that changes. Your trial period will not allow you to go to bars or night clubs. You also tend to have driving restrictions. Talking with friends and family about your situation can ease some of the emotional burden of DUI. Your friends and family will support you and help you through this difficult time.
3. Talk To An Alcohol Abuse Support Group
Not everyone who gets a DUI is an alcoholic. Your DUI could have been a result of a lapse of judgment or a one time night of uncharacteristic binge drinking. Regardless, there are many positive benefits of attending alcohol abuse support group meetings. At these meetings, you will be surrounded by people who are either currently in your situation or have been in your situation. Knowing that you are not selected in the DUI is very important; it eases your shame and guilt. Listening and speaking in support groups will improve your mental and emotional health, enabling you to move on with your life.
4. Accept Responsibility And Learn From Your Mistakes
Perhaps the biggest advice I can offer to continue your life after DUI arrest is accepting responsibility. Don’t blame others. Don’t complain about the police being harsh on you or the judge making an example of you. Take responsibility for your own actions and acknowledge your mistakes. Being honest with yourself will allow you to put things in perspective and truly advance.
