What Are The Benefits Of Having Strong Support Systems For Drug And Alcohol Rehab?
Many new to recovery from addiction and new to drug and alcohol rehab think that after 30 days, they will never drink or use drugs again. This concept is not the case. Drug and alcohol recovery is a lifelong journey that comes with many ups and downs. Finding and maintaining long-term sobriety takes dedication. Thus, having the right type of support systems for drug and alcohol rehab and recovery is paramount. If you or someone you love is a recovering addict, look around and make sure you have these people nearby.
1. Surround Yourself with Sober Family and Friends
After drug and alcohol rehab, many people in recovery go back home. However, while their habits might have changed, the behaviors of previous friends may remain the same. Generally, it would be best if you associated yourself with sober family and friends.
These support systems around you will help you stay clear from relapsing whether they’re also recovering addicts or have never struggled with substance abuse. Lean on them whenever you experience triggers that might cause you to relapse. Be open about your struggles in the recovery process, and ask them to hold you accountable for your actions.
2. Join a Recovery Support Group
Rehab isn’t the end of addiction. Even after a successful treatment program, over 60 percent of people relapse. For drug and alcohol rehab success, it’s vital to think about the long-term process. Try to join a recovery support group that helps you understand life after rehab. Many choose to participate in aftercare programs, and occasionally, choose outpatient therapy to ensure they feel confident in their recovery process.
3. Talk to a Substance Abuse Therapist
During your treatment program, most likely, you’ll develop a strong relationship with your therapist. Through one-on-one counseling, therapists are the ones to teach you about coping skills, after-treatment relapse prevention, and more. Most therapists will continue to reach out to make sure your recovery is well on its way. Hopefully, you’ll be able to foster a relationship with your therapist that helps you stay in touch even years after discharge. We know that here at Lighthouse Recovery Institute, our therapists hear from their previous patients all the time.
4. A 12-Step Recovery Group
Since 1940, AA and AN meetings have been the go-to support system for millions of recovering addicts. The ability to walk into any meeting, no matter where you are, is a blessing. Most of these meetings focus on the 12-step program system, and also the idea to help people stay sober post-rehab.
Whenever you feel stressed, triggered, or even lost in your recovery journey, attending one of these meetings can help put everything in perspective. Having the support and understanding of others walking a similar path can be extremely helpful.
5. A Sponsor
Perhaps one of the most valuable support systems for drug and alcohol rehab success. A sponsor can be any family or friend who wants to help. Being able to pick up the phone whenever you’re struggling and contact your sponsor for guidance, support, and advice can be life-saving. However, a sponsor should be someone who’s also a recovering addict. When they’ve been in your shoes, it’s easier for them to support you and guide you in the right direction to maintain your sobriety.
Your Treatment Center
Hopefully, your experience with your treatment center was a positive one. Having a treatment center as part of your support systems for drug and alcohol rehab recovery success is like continuing your treatment. At Lighthouse Recovery Institute, many of our patients always keep us in mind during their recovery. More than a treatment center, we’re a family, and together we’ll face any adversity. If you or someone you know is a recovering addict struggling with sobriety, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team of therapists is always available to help you find the right way back to long-term sobriety.
