How to Build a Support Network

Support is something that everyone, no matter who they are, requires in order to live a happy, healthy life. If you are in recovery from a substance use disorder, support is vital to your success. Having the support of others means you can flourish in your recovery.

So, how can you build a support network? Consider the following:

• Go to meetings. Local meetings, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, can serve as the foundation of your recovery. In these meetings, you will work on the 12 Steps as well as connect with others in recovery. Arguably the best part about AA and NA meetings is that no matter who you are or where you are from, you are accepted. These meetings offer a safe space for you to be vulnerable and let your guard down. By simply doing this, you can invite others in. The more often you go to meetings, the more you will get to know other members. These people can quickly become part of your support network, as you know that you can always talk to them and they will undoubtedly be there for you.
• Foster relationships made in treatment. No matter what type of addiction treatment program you participated in to get sober, you had the opportunity to make friends with other patients. Even if the friends you made do not live near you, do not let go of those friendships. Instead, foster them. These individuals are the rare few who can understand you in a way that many others might not be able to. Also, if you met in treatment, you have already been traveling the road to recovery together. Continuing to do so can feel good and offer you the support you need to keep going.
• Avoid isolation. You would be hard pressed to find a recovering addict or alcoholic who has gotten sober and stayed sober all on his or her own. The disease of addiction and recovering from it can be extremely challenging, which is why people are encouraged to avoid isolation. Isolating yourself can lead to boredom, depression, sadness, and other dark feelings that contribute to your desire to use again. So, stay social. Continue to go places. Get involved in group activities. Freely participate in whatever social constructs that you are comfortable with. Being around people and developing relationships can provide a level of support that encourages your continued growth in recovery.
• Improve communication with family. There’s a strong chance that your relationships with your family members are not as solid as they once were or could be as a result of your addiction. Family, even if at odds sometimes, is still family. You can work through the collateral of your addiction with your family members to help alleviate stress, resentment, and sadness, as well as to promote healthy communication and compassion. When your family unit gets healthier, they can be your biggest source of support, and vice versa.

Never underestimate the power of building a strong support network. It is one of the most important aspects of a successful recovery. You can thrive through the support of others, allowing you to reach recovery goals you may have never dreamed of.

Get Professional Help Today

If you are struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, reach out to us at JourneyPure Clarksville right now. We can help you get started on your recovery so that you can benefit from a positive support network in your life.

Do not wait. Call us today.