Support groups will empower people to stay on their path and reclaim their lives leading to long lasting sobriety.
1. Emotional Support
Emotional support is a big part of recovery. Individuals overcoming addiction often feel alone, hopeless and are ashamed of their past. Support groups provide a safe environment for the person to speak about their struggles with addiction and other aspects of life – without judgement. The shared empathy helps ease the loneliness often felt, making recovery a less scary endeavor.
Support group members often express their emotions knowing that other members have had similar experiences. This understanding amongst the group creates a sense of acceptance that is critical when it comes to emotional healing. By having regular interaction with group members, the person will be encouraged in their recovery journey, which will help boost their self-esteem.
2. Accountability
Being a part of a support group provides accountability for the person in recovery. Even though the person is doing everything they can to maintain a healthy lifestyle, old habits and cravings may still creep in. A support group allows the person to stay accountable on their road to recovery. Other members of the group provide support during the difficult times and help the person stay committed to their recovery routine.
The group helps build responsibility. Knowing that others are checking in on the person’s recovery and their progress will motivate the person to stay on the right path. Accountability created in these groups extends outside of them. Also, friendships are made, and individuals learn to not only to hold themselves accountable for their actions but help others in the same way.
3. Shared Experiences
A powerful aspect of support groups is learning from others who have been in the same situation. The core struggles of addiction are often similar and hearing how others have gone through recovery can provide insight into strategies on overcoming different obstacles.
Through sharing stories, group members can see that recovery is possible, which builds hope for the individual. Speaking about experiences also provides the opportunity to learn coping mechanisms, develop new skills and be able to identify triggering mechanisms. The knowledge of the entire group will help the individual create and implement effective strategies for their recovery.
4. Tools for Success
Support groups provide a wealth of knowledge and practical tools for people to use in recovery. These often include counseling, community programs and treatment options. People in these groups will share experiences about healthcare providers and suggest therapists and other individuals who can help the person overcome their addiction.
Other tools support groups provide are more tangible. Transportation to meetings, advice on managing their money and help finding a job are common ways support groups can help a person in recovery. This support can help ease some of the day-to-day worries the person may have that can hinder the recovery process. By using the resources of group members, the person can start building a life they are proud of.
Creating support groups is critical for anyone in the recovery process. The accountability, emotional support and tools learned from others enhances the chance for success. For people in recovery, the fact that they no longer feel alone and now have supportive, healthy friendships will go a long way while they continue their journey. Support groups will empower people to stay on their path and reclaim their lives leading to long lasting sobriety. FBN
By Roy DuPrez
Roy DuPrez, M.Ed., is the CEO and founder of Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery in Flagstaff. DuPrez received his B.S. and M.Ed. from Northern Arizona University. Back2Basics helps young men, ages 18 to 35, recover from addiction to drugs and alcohol. Back2Basics is an adventure recovery program, up to six months, for young adult males ages 18-30 with substance abuse issues looking for a positive and meaningful life. In the program, clients are exposed to a weekly combination of both wilderness adventures and residential programming. For more information, visit back2basicsoutdooradventures.com, call 928-814-2220 or email rduprez@b2badventures.com.
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