After a successful treatment process at an addiction treatment facility, many individuals mistakenly think their road to recovery has been completed. Unfortunately, however, things are not quite that easy. After initial treatment, an individual is reintroduced to the outside world, and the sights, sounds, triggers, and temptations that were not a part of the treatment facility suddenly become a very real part of life again. Experts suggest that the first step an individual should take in recovery is to align him/herself with a recovery group that embodies his or her same values, and to make a commitment to participate in meetings and activities with that group as they progress in their recovery journey. Another huge step to take as well, however, is to make sure that you bring your family up to speed about your recovery, and request their support in helping you continue down the path to sobriety. The first way that your family can help you in your recovery is by acting as a sounding board for the methods and ideas you have about making the best of your journey. For many individuals, recovering from an addiction means every day offers a new set of challenges to tackle. Be that navigating the right way to end old friendships, getting involved with healthy groups and organizations that you may not be familiar with, or even preparing a nutritious meal after months of not having cooked for yourself, talking out your plans of action and what you hope to accomplish through particular steps with family members and loved ones can be a great way to get someone else’s take on best practices for your journey. Another way your family can help is with motivation. Explain to your family members that you do not always feel up to the task of making the right choices when it comes to your health, and that you would appreciate non-judgmental words of encouragement if it seems like you are feeling down and out. Your family members know the best ways to cheer you up, and being happy is a key factor of being healthy and productive in sobriety. Finally, your family can help you set strict guidelines for yourself, and ensure you follow them without excuses. While you may not always want to follow the rules yourself, having the loving but firm direction of family can help keep you on the straight and narrow. Additionally, having family members support you with guidelines also means they can be the best people for you to talk to about your progress.
Family members can certainly help in recovery, but they also can play a huge role in getting you the help you need for your addiction. Listen to their concerns. Call Oceanfront Recovery at (877)279-1777, and let’s get you back on the right track.
