If you’ve recently gone through drug or alcohol recovery, you likely have discussed having a support network to help prevent relapse after you leave inpatient or intensive outpatient addiction therapy. Support is critical for people in early recovery to help them make the next right choice, reassure them when they feel like they’re struggling alone, and provide help when the urge to drink or use is overwhelming.
What Are Sober Support Networks?
A sober support network is a group of people you may have met in recovery who are either going through the process alongside you or have been through treatment themselves,s like a sponsor. You may meet them at sober events or through social media communities for people who have graduated from a program. These people can be crucial to your recovery because they understand what you’re experiencing and may have advice to offer that worked when times got tough in their lives. They celebrate triumphs and milestones with you.
What are the Benefits of a Support Network?
Kicking a drug or alcohol addiction is tough, and there is strength in numbers.Isolation is a high trigger for many people to relapse. A sober network can help you reduce loneliness and give you social interaction options that don’t include drinking or using drugs.
Higher Self-Esteem
Sober support networks include positive social interaction and can give you a feeling of acceptance and belonging, which all humans desire. When you’re in a sober group, you may have more confidence in overcoming temptation and developing new relationships. And, sober networks support your accomplishments and cheer you on, which can help when times get tough.
Accountability and Relapse Monitoring
If you feel like you’re slipping back into old habits or thinking more that you can moderate or control your drug or alcohol use, you can lean on sober friends. And, a sober network may point out behaviors that can indicate a relapse. Being aware of thoughts or actions that come before taking a drink can help keep you accountable and in recovery.
Giving You Hope
If you’re in early recovery, it can be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel or think about how life can be without feeling the constant temptation to drink or use. Hearing success stories from people who have been sober for years can encourage you when things get hard.
How Can I Build a Sober Network?
Building a sober network takes work, but many agree it’s worth it. Even if you’re shy, you can still find people to support you in recovery. Support meetings are a good place to start. These are welcoming places, full of others who have been in your situation and who are ready to support newly sober people. You may choose 12-Step meetings or meetings for your recovery center’s alumni group. You may have to try a few different groups before you find one that fits and where you feel comfortable.
Getting involved in the recovery community can be intimidating, especially if you’ve left behind your old friend group because they still drink or use drugs. There may be ways that you can get involved to help develop friendships, such as volunteering to set up before a meeting or cleaning up afterward. Your sponsor may also be able to help introduce you to others in your meeting groups.
Do You Need Help With Drug or Alcohol Addiction?
If you’re concerned with your drug or alcohol use, we can help. Contact Hickory Treatment Centers today for a confidential and compassionate discussion of programs that can help you.
