Recovery entails more than just abstaining from substance use. It is creating a drug-free lifestyle and incorporating changes that benefit your physical, mental, emotional, and social health. Making the choice to overcome addiction is a difficult step, but the first in a journey to improving your health and wellbeing. It is a not a journey that clients must go alone, though. In fact, having support from professionals, family, peers, and the community can all be beneficial.
A support system can have many different facets. This provides more comprehensive help in a variety of situations. Finding people that you can trust and turn to in times of need (and celebration) can enhance the recovery process. These people and groups can provide help in many different ways:
Someone to turn to in times of temptation or challenge. When you are feeling the pressure of cravings or the temptation to use drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism, having someone to turn to can help keep you on track. They can remind you of strategies to deal with these situations and help to take your mind off of things. Being in their presence can act as a deterrent and hold you more accountable for not using.
A source of advice. Whether talking to a peer group, a therapist or counselor, or simply a family member or friend, they can be a source of advice and inspiration. Perhaps they have been through a similar situation. Talking through your troubles can allow you to see them from a different perspective and determine how to proceed. In support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, you are surrounded by others at various stages of recovery. Not only can they provide you with advice, you can also support others.
Positive connections. Your support group can be the start of building healthier relationships and connections. It is important to stay away from those who may be a negative influence and encourage you to use. Those who are supporting your recovery want to see you succeed and can provide a safe, sober environment. This can reduce risk and triggers while encouraging good choices.
Provides motivation and encouragement. Surrounding yourself with positive people who are there to support you can give you the drive you need to stay on the path to a drug-free lifestyle. They are there to boost you up when you are going through challenging times and celebrate along with you during achievements. A kind word or a listening ear can go a long way.
Setting up a strong support system is an essential part of the recovery process. While the choice to remain drug-free is one that you must make on your own every day, knowing that there are people you can turn to who care and can help you through rough times can be empowering. They can help you to implement the strategies that you have learned and ease the transition back into the community. You do not have to go through recovery alone.
If you are ready to take this step in your life and overcome your addiction with the support of others, contact Chapters Capistrano today at 949-276-2886. We provide both 12-step and non 12-step options, as well as individual, group, and family therapy. Focusing on all facets of recovery, we support you along every step of the way.
