I planned to get sober a month in advance, and as I was preparing, I reached out to my friends and family. I knew that having support behind me would be integral to my success in recovery. This is one reason support groups or 12-step fellowships are often recommended; ultimately, your recovery is your own, but it’s bolstered by other people.
Support Groups and Fellowships
In sober community, members can relate to one another, cheer each other on, and hold one another accountable. There are many ways to find this type of community if you don’t already have it. In 12-step fellowships like AA or NA, you will have access to sober people in your area with whom you might connect. If 12-step programs aren’t your thing but you still want to meet formally, there are other support groups like SMART Recovery.
Finding Support Online
The internet is a great resource for finding sober community. Try looking up sober meetup groups in your area or searching Facebook groups. If you don’t see one, that’s an opportunity to create your own! It can be intimidating, but hosting a meetup group can give you a sense of control if you’re feeling discouraged about finding local sober people.
In recent years, more people are opening up about addiction and recovery online. This is helpful for finding sober support.
Since I post about sobriety milestones, I regularly receive messages from acquaintances who are looking to get sober and have questions. Look for the people who are talking on social media about their recovery; if they are public about it, they are likely willing to speak with you. These can turn into wonderful sober friendships, or at the very least the person can share their experience with you.
Cultivating Your Community
I’ve been lucky that I coincidentally have a bunch of close friends who got sober after I did, but those relationships still require effort. I have to cultivate them, and make sure we’re engaging in mutual support. I check in on my sober friends—especially when I know they’re going through something hard—and they check in on me.
Wherever you find sober friends, building that support system is just the start. Sober community requires time and attention to really feel like a community—but that time and effort is so worth it.
If you are struggling with a mental health disorder or co-occurring addiction, there is help and hope. TruHealing Centers offers high-quality treatment for mental health disorders and addiction in facilities across the country. Our staff will set you up with supports for lasting recovery. Call an admissions specialist at 410-593-0005.