While many believe that recovery is a personal journey, that is not the whole truth. You cannot maintain your sobriety or expect to recover without the help and support of others along the way. This is why it is vital to develop a sober support network throughout your recovery journey. The development of a sober support network will allow you to get the support you need from a practical source of individuals who know what you have been through and have ways to get through the hard times in recovery.
What is a Sober Support Network?
A sober support network is a group of sober individuals that you meet along the course of your recovery that helps you maintain your sobriety for the long-term. You often meet these people at sober events and meetings, as well as in treatment. These individuals are crucial to your recovery because they understand what you have gone through and can give you practical advice for the bad days you will face along your journey. They will also be there to celebrate your triumphs. It is important to remember that you should also be there for them to provide support and celebrate their accomplishments as well.
Benefits of a Sober Support Network
Having a sober support network is essential to recovery. There is a truth behind the statement, “strength in numbers,” and a sober support network proves that. The various benefits are enough to show that you should have your own as you go through your recovery journey.
Like-Minded People
One of the biggest enemies of recovery is isolation. Isolation is a common relapse trigger, and a sober support network helps fight against this by surrounding you with like-minded people. Sober individuals will not pressure you into using drugs or alcohol but will motivate you to maintain your sobriety.
Increased Self-Esteem
Humans crave social connections, and sober support networks provide just that. Because many individuals want to belong, being a part of a sober group can increase your confidence and self-esteem in your interpersonal relationships – it bestows a feeling of acceptance. You can also become more confident in your recovery because you know you have the support needed.
Relapse Monitoring and Accountability
If there comes a time when you are slipping back into your old habits, your sober support network will be able to point out the behaviors. This way, you can be aware of a potential relapse before it happens. Being aware of this can help you stop relapse in its tracks and get back on the course of your healing. Accountability will help you maintain your recovery without setting you back.
Having Hope
Hearing stories from individuals that have been sober for an extended period can give you hope in your own recovery journey. Seeing someone else succeed in recovery can help you have more faith in yourself to stick with it even when things get hard.
How Do I Build My Sober Support Network?
There are multiple ways to meet other sober individuals and develop friendships. Even if you tend to be shyer, you can still find individuals you get along with and support you in recovery.
Go to Support Meetings
The best way to meet other sober individuals is to attend support meetings for individuals who have gone through addiction. These can be 12-step meetings (such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous) or alternatives, but make sure they fit your personal recovery needs. Be friendly and talk to others at the meetings (in-person or online) to make friends and build your sober support network.
Get Involved with the Recovery Community
Leaving treatment can make it difficult to reconnect with the recovery community outside support meetings. However, if you want to meet other sober individuals, a great way to do so is to engage with the recovery community. Getting involved can mean volunteering, hosting sober events, or offering to teach others about addiction. These activities will help you meet other sober individuals and extend your support network.
Dangers of Hanging with the Wrong Crowd
Once you begin the journey to recovery, it is crucial that you do not engage in activities that will jeopardize your sobriety. These may include hanging out with individuals you used to use drugs or alcohol with. Hanging around these individuals can potentially trigger you and pose a high risk of relapse. It is crucial to cut ties with negative influences and find a sober support network. This way, you are surrounded by people that support your sobriety and won’t tempt you to fall back into old habits.
Having a sober support network is crucial to your recovery because it will help you stay on track even on the most challenging days. Many individuals are wary of meeting new people, but it is vital to recognize the significance of having other sober people in your life. At the Pinelands Recovery Center of Medford, we encourage our patients to form bonds with others in recovery to help avoid potential risks of relapse and have the support they need. We have an extensive alumni program that helps our patients after they leave our facility. Building your sober support network doesn’t have to be complicated; let us help you get started. Call today at (877) 557-5372 to learn more and start your healing journey among the pines.