Social support for addiction recovery can go a long way for people who are trying to break free from their addictions. The connections and relationships that flourish during the treatment promote healing even more than when one goes through recovery alone.
One of the reasons why social support for addiction recovery is vital is because it’s one avenue for recovering individuals to find mentors. They can connect with these people who have gone through what they’re going through. There are so many things that recovering people can learn from them. Strategies and techniques on how to fight cravings for drugs are some examples of this. Apart from that, other skills will also be enhanced such as communication and social skills.
If you’re in addiction recovery, don’t be afraid to reach out to people or to support groups. Having social support during such a challenging time is important. It is essentially a recovery tool that will ensure that your sobriety will be long-lasting.
Related article: What is Group Therapy for Drug Addiction Treatment?
Why We Need to Connect with Others
Connecting with others and nurturing relationships fulfill our most fundamental need as social beings. We need to love and be loved. It is important for us to feel that someone cares about us. It is also fulfilling for us to care for others.
When we connect with other people, we can find individuals with whom we can communicate our thoughts and feelings. During addiction recovery, this is helpful because it can be a tough time especially when the cravings for drugs or alcohol resurface.
Recovering individuals will find comfort in other people who have been able to win over their battles with addiction. They can provide inspiration and support to those who are just starting their journey.
A Chance to Learn More About Oneself
By being around people, you will only not learn much about them, their struggles and their triumphs, you will also learn more about yourself. It’s a lot like standing in front of the mirror. You can reflect on the things that they share with you and realize that you’re so much alike.
For example, if you meet a person who has been sober for many years, you may only see the success. But once you talk to that person, you’ll know more about their struggles. You’ll realize that they also went through what you’re going through. It means that if it’s possible for them to get rid of the drugs and alcohol and stay sober, so can you.
Connecting with other people gives you the chance to know them and in turn, know yourself and your needs as well. Not only that, but you’ll also learn much about what you’re capable of. That you can be as successful as they are and that you can overcome addiction.
Benefits of Getting Social Support for Addiction Recovery
When you are around supportive people, you can enjoy plenty of benefits. You can learn from them and you also have the opportunity to share what you know. Having the support of a community will also help in reducing your isolation and negative thinking. Connections allow you to develop friendships that will last for a lifetime.
You will also notice that you’re much happier when you’re part of a support group. You are no longer by yourself, trapped in your negativity. You will notice that you’re not as anxious or depressed as you used to. Social support for addiction recovery will also help you in boosting your self-esteem and confidence.
Being with people will allow you to practice your communication and social skills. You’ll get plenty of chances to practice talking to people. You’ll also become a good listener who can carry a conversation elegantly. Social occasions will no longer cause you anxiety.
If you’ve isolated yourself for too long because of your drug use or because you feel shameful, know that when you’re with a support group, you are surrounded by loving and understanding people. Allow them to help you and love you. You are deserving of that. Don’t let your past determine your present and future.
Believing in the Power of Hope
Not everyone may believe in a higher power or feel that they’re spiritual. Besides, spirituality is something that you’d have to decide for yourself. You don’t have to join a group if it doesn’t fit you and your beliefs. Some groups are more spiritual than others. What’s important is that you’re comfortable and that you’re among people who understand you.
There’s something about believing in a higher power that gives many people hope. And sometimes, that sense of hope is what’s more important. It doesn’t really matter whether which beliefs are more convincing or true. What matters is what you believe to be true and that it gives you much hope that there’s something better in store for you.
This sense of hope allows you to let go of your past and your pains and sufferings. You will start to believe in yourself again. You move forward in your healing process and the tough days become more bearable. Hope is powerful. Collectively, even more so. When you find yourself feeling hopeless, being part of a support group will remind you that better days are ahead.
Related article: How does Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Work for Addiction Treatment?
Takeaway
Being addicted to drugs and alcohol can cause people to isolate themselves. There are many reasons why people dealing with addiction do this. Maybe it’s because of shame or guilt. Whatever the reason may be, it’s time to show a bit more kindness to yourself and accept the understanding, support, and love from others.
Social support for addiction recovery is one of the best ways to ensure that your battle with addiction will be a successful one. The journey towards healing and recovery is full of challenges. If you go through it by yourself, it will be much tougher. But if you have people who are going to support you along the way, you will no longer feel so alone and you’ll know that full recovery is within reach.
