In recovery (and life), we have a lot to gain from learning about other people’s experiences. It can give us ideas for our own recovery, and help us get better at supporting one another. Mutual support is an important part of recovery.
While people with addiction often have a lot about which we can relate, we aren’t all coming from the same place. A person’s culture, race, gender, age, family dynamics, income level, mental health status, and many other factors affect their lived experience in ways that someone with a different background can’t see. It’s important to listen, so you can be more aware of those blind spots.
Active Listening
Active listening is a skill that can be practiced, and it’s helpful for all of recovery. · Verywellmind—an online resource about mental health written by mental health professionals and vetted by board-certified physicians—defines this type of conversational skill as, “the process of listening attentively while someone else speaks, paraphrasing and reflecting back what is said, and withholding judgment and advice.”[1]
It’s when you are engaged in what the other person is saying, rather than waiting to speak. This may be something you need to practice, as this is a skill that often suffers during active addiction.
It’s okay to be excited to share your own thoughts; that can be a sign that you’re really connecting with someone. But active listening shows your conversational partner that you value what they’re saying, and helps you understand their experience.
Understanding Where People Are Coming From
Everyone—even people who do share a lot in common with you—has a different experience of addiction and recovery. People’s histories may impact their recovery in ways you wouldn’t know if they didn’t tell you. For instance, while many people see exercise as part of their sobriety, it may be a fraught topic for someone in eating disorder recovery. If you listen actively while they share this information, you can remember to be mindful about how (or whether) you approach this subject with them.
Learning about other people’s worldviews and backgrounds is great for everyone. It helps you be the best support you can be to others in your life. It also provides opportunities to shift your perspective—which is always useful in recovery.
If you are struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder, you can heal. TruHealing Centers offers high-quality treatment for addiction and mental health disorders in facilities across the country. Our staff—many of whom are in recovery themselves—will help you build healthy communication skills and a great support system. To learn more, call an admissions specialist at 410-593-0005.
[1] https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-active-listening-3024343