5 Tips on Building a Solid Support System to Achieve Long Term Recovery
As you start to transition out of inpatient rehab treatment with outpatient treatment, it’s crucial for you to build a strong support system to sustain long term recovery. For some, this task seems daunting, yet here are five tips that will make building your solid support system go smoothly.
#1: Realize you shouldn’t try this alone
Simply put: your addiction was geared toward isolation. Your recovery will be geared toward connection. It’s important that you realize you actually do need a support system and can’t shoulder the load of long term recovery on your shoulders all by yourself. Connecting with others, not secluding yourself, is the way to go.
#2: Surround yourself with people who have been successful in long term recovery
They say, in order to be successful, you should surround yourself with successful people. Well, that also applies to building a solid support system in recovery. You’ll encounter people who talk a good game about staying clean and sober, but it’s key that you surround yourself with people who practice what they preach. Plus, this will only help keep you from isolating yourself, which is a recovery no-no.
#3: Be honest with support group professionals
This can be tough, but it’s vital that you do not hide your addiction history from your counselors and doctors. You shouldn’t feel embarrassed about your addiction struggles, as these professionals are paid to help you. In order for them to fully help you in your recovery, you should tell them your entire story.
#4: Don’t be afraid to try out a several different support groups
Each rehab treatment center will strongly recommend you join a 12 step support group, and rightfully so. They’re a great source of social support and are effective in helping those who are in recovery. However, be careful not to quickly judge the overall 12 step program upon attending one group meeting. Just because you don’t gel with one group doesn’t mean should lose all hope. You should keep trying various groups until you find a group that fits you.
#5: Realize your family is important, but cannot be your only extension of support
Your addiction not only affected you, but also your family and close friends as well. Some of them may still be hurt and angry, or even prepared to enable you. Communicating your problems to and depending on your family and close friends for support is great, but they can’t be all who you turn to during this time. You must set boundaries and limits with them, which will subsequently lead to you feeling empowered and accountable in your long term recovery.
Do you or your loved one need additional tips or information on resources available to build a strong support system? Call Discovery Transitions today at 844.241.8276.
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