If you’re on the road to recovery from addiction, that’s wonderful! But know that the journey from here on out will be long and hard and you’ll have an even harder time handling it without an effective support group. With the right people at your side, it will be much easier to overcome the temptations associated with addiction. Follow these six steps to developing an effective support group to get you on your way to a healthy recovery.

1. Rely on Family

Most people can count on family to love them unconditionally. If you have a loving family who wants to see you well again, rely on them for support. Family can provide emotional, financial, and physical stability as you traverse this difficult road. Some family members may have a difficult time wanting to help you, especially if you’ve hurt them in the past. In that case, consider going to family counseling to help unify your family once again.

2. Develop a Deep, Personal Connection

Whether it’s with your sponsor, therapist, spouse, or family member, you should try to develop at least one deep, personal connection. You’ll need someone you feel extremely comfortable with so that you aren’t afraid to share your temptations, relapses, or hard times.

3. Healthy Social Network

Surround yourself with people who are sober and want to see you become sober. Peer pressure or social substance abuse are some of the biggest temptations when it comes to addiction. Make it easier on yourself and hang out with people who won’t be abusing substances and who will help you say no.

4. Live in a Sober Environment

Chances are if you’ve gotten involved in substance abuse, you have or are living with someone who had a similar problem. If that’s the case, you need to move somewhere else. Look for a safe, supportive environment with positive influences and fewer temptations.

5. Seek Those Who Uplift

As you choose the people you’ll be associating with during your recovery period, it’s important to seek out friends and family who will remain positive and helpful rather than negative and critical. Feelings of shame and depression are key triggers to addictive behavior and if you’re subject to that all the time, it’ll make your recovery process very difficult.

6. Lean on a Therapist

Studies show that therapy during the addiction recovery period is very helpful. Lean on that help. Call your therapist if you ever need to talk your way through a craving or need some positive advice. They can help you through this rough time.

We offer an intensive outpatient program for addiction with certified therapists to meet your needs. Let us help you get your life back. Call today to make an appointment.