Support Systems And Addiction Recovery: What You Need To Know
If you are dealing with a substance abuse problem, it is important that you surround yourself with people who are there for you. Therapy is an important part of the healing process, but you also need to have a good support system to help you on your journey. Your therapist will help you set up objectives as you go through your substance abuse treatment program. One of those objectives is to ensure you only have those around you who are willing to be supportive. The following are some things you should know as you decide on who should be included in your support system:
Surround Yourself with Positive People
Your support system should include those who are going to help you make better decisions. You should not have anyone in your life who will encourage you to go back to your old habits. A good support system will include those who are willing to give you positive reinforcement and be there as you make good decisions.
Make Sure Your Support System Is There No Matter What
Whether your support system includes family or friends, include those who are willing to help you at any time you need it. You may experience some setbacks or depression as you move through the healing process. Ideally, you need a few people who will be willing to drop anything to help you no matter what if you need help.
Make Sure Your Support System Is There to Listen
At different points in your recovery, you may need to talk. You need people who are close to you and are willing to listen when you need an ear. You do not necessarily need someone who can give you advice or provide constructive criticism. You might just need to vent or talk about what you are feeling at any given moment. A good listener is one who will be there to let you release whatever is concerning you at the time. A counselor or therapist is ideal for this, but it helps to have friends and family members who are also willing to listen when you can't get into a session right away.
Recovering from substance abuse requires a lot of help and a strong support system that includes your therapist, friends, family, and any acquaintances you trust to see you through this process. Never surround yourself with people who are negative or are not able to properly see you through this journey.