How to Build a Sober Support Network: Friends, Family, and Community

How to Build a Sober Support Network

One of the most interesting things that is noted by many addiction counselors is that many substance abusers initially begin using substances because they help to encourage social behavior. The majority of drugs of abuse have some sort of social lubricating effect, whether that is by diminishing anxiety or helping to stifle the voice of self-criticism. For some people, the pressures of social interaction in group settings can simply lead to stress or anxiety, making them feel worse than if they hadn’t sought out the socialization whatsoever. SMART Recovery, which stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training, is a secular organization that focuses on science-informed practices to help people recover. Groups are led by a trained facilitator and focus on evidence-based tools to help you get and stay sober. Family therapy not only helps you heal damaged relationships but teaches you and your family members how to better support one another throughout your recovery.

  • Our dedicated team specializes in dual diagnosis treatment and can assist you in building a strong sober support network.
  • Learn about how addiction impacts the community, what our team is doing, and about how you or your loved one can get help starting recovery.
  • For example, you might choose to avoid social situations that involve alcohol or drugs, or you might ask family members to refrain from bringing up certain triggering topics.
  • Celebrate milestones by acknowledging your achievements with your sober network.

How to Build Your Own Sober Support Network

If you went through treatment, then you likely met some strong candidates over the course of the recovery process. But your support network should not consist solely of people who only have as much time in sobriety as you. If you really want your support network to be strong, then you need people who can teach you through their own example. Sober living communities often have house rules that prohibit substance use, creating a safe haven that promotes personal growth and responsibility. Every stage of recovery poses challenges that you may need a different level of support to tackle. An addiction support network can help you cope with triggers that could potentially lead to relapse, promote a greater sense of wellbeing, and make you feel more empowered in recovery.

Making Friends in Support Group Meetings

  • Our aftercare programs often include recommendations for sober social groups and community events in California.
  • Rehab centers often offer couples and family counseling and are typically able to educate the people who surround individuals who have struggled with substance abuse.
  • While their actions may still hurt, recognizing that their reactions are often rooted in fear, ignorance, or personal pain can offer some perspective and reduce feelings of anger or resentment.
  • Everyone’s recovery is a lot different, and to be successful with your own, you need to be clear about your own goals.

This may help you to rebuild relationships with family members or friends from the past. Overall, boundaries help establish healthy connections and protect your emotional well-being. They’re important so you and your loved ones continue to express mutual trust and love while understanding that they are there to help you and not go on your recovery journey for you. This article will delve into the importance of a sober support network, provide actionable steps to build and maintain one and explore its transformative impact on recovery. Lumina Recovery offers compassionate, comprehensive addiction treatment, including inpatient and outpatient care, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT).

The Critical Importance of a Sober Support Network

How to Build a Sober Support Network

It’s important to acknowledge small victories and personal growth, as these contribute to your overall progress in the recovery journey. Fostering a connection with family and friends who empathize with your struggles can help alleviate feelings of isolation. Having your sober support network written down can be helpful for easy reference, and it can serve as a lifeline if ‘things’ hit the fan. At Archstone Behavioral Health, we understand that the cost of rehab often discourages people from seeking help. That’s why our goal is to make rehab accessible through a variety of rehab insurance coverage plans we have on offer. We invite you to learn more about them and let our team help you find the right insurance option for you or your loved one.

How to Build a Sober Support Network

The love and support of those who care for you can bring warmth and strength to your recovery journey, even during difficult times. Sometimes, unsupportive behaviors stem from a lack of understanding about addiction and recovery. Sharing educational resources, such as books, articles, or videos, can help your loved ones gain a better grasp of what you are going through. The-Recover encourages individuals in recovery to explore volunteer opportunities in their local communities.

  • There are a lot of different recovery meetings that you can choose from.
  • Having a solid home group can be an important step toward developing a truly strong support network.
  • There might come a day when you have the skills necessary to be around others who are intoxicated in your presence, but during the early days of recovery, it is a battle that is not worth fighting.

Sometimes, your network could be as relevant and invaluable as understanding the “30 year fixed mortgage rates today” when making a significant financial commitment. Traditional strategies for building a sober network are effective, but innovative sober network approaches are emerging to further strengthen support networks. Virtual reality (VR) therapy, for example, is becoming popular as a tool to help individuals practice social interactions and coping mechanisms in a safe setting.

How to Build a Sober Support Network

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