Recovery is more than an individual journey — you need the support and love of others as you overcome the ravages of addiction. Perhaps it’s a friend who has stood by your side through thick and thin. Or, maybe a counselor whose advice has been instrumental to your sobriety. Below, we discuss the value of building a recovery support team and how to find people who can positively contribute to your life.
The Importance of a Solid Support System
A recovery support team includes caring and supportive individuals who will walk beside you as you discover your new normal free from addiction. Whether you’re new to recovery or you’ve walked this road for years, here are some of the benefits a recovery support team can provide:
- Serves as healthy examples: After struggling with addiction for so long, you may forget what it looks like to live a normal life. Surrounding yourself with healthy people, and even others in recovery, will spur you on to greater heights.
- Gives voice to your struggles: Recovery is not easy — one day may feel fine, while the next, your sobriety may feel impossible. A support system allows you to talk through each challenge as it comes.
- Acts as a lifeline: Relapse is a real and ever-present risk. When you feel like you’re about to succumb to temptation, your recovery support team may offer you a chance to rethink your choices and find a better way.
How to Build Your Recovery Support Team
The more time you spend with positive people trying to live healthy lives, the less likely you’ll turn to drugs or alcohol when triggers arise. Whether you’re starting from scratch or bolstering your current support system, here are a few tips to help you build your recovery support team.
Attend Group Counseling or Addiction Meetings
As you recover, it can feel like you’re the only person struggling with these issues. Group counseling and addiction or 12-step meetings let you meet new people who have been where you are. These forums are a great place to find meaningful connections with others who are seeking positive change.
Rebuild Family Ties
When it comes to addiction, families are often most deeply hurt by this insidious disease. As you recover, it can be hard to face the emotions surrounding past experiences. However, working through these feelings with those closest to you could bring hope and healing to your most important relationships. While it may take time to rebuild trust, having your family as part of your support team can help maintain your long-term recovery.
Be Wise
While friendship and connections are essential to help you avoid the loneliness that can trigger a relapse, not every person you meet needs to be a part of your recovery support team. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- Some people will be too busy or disinterested — don’t take it personally.
- Not all new friendships last forever.
- Avoid people who actively use drugs or alcohol.
- Regularly check-in on relationships to ensure that person is still a positive force in your life. If not, look for other connections.
Take the First Step on Your Recovery Journey
At AppleGate Recovery, we are proud to offer individualized treatment plans for those struggling with opioid addiction. Our programs center around medication-assisted treatment combined with counseling services to ensure you find healing in both your body and mind. Learn how you can get started today.