Simply put, early recovery asks much of people, including eternal vigilance to adhere – as best as possible – to the principles of a program for living life free from mind-altering substances. Dedicating oneself to recovery is possible and maintaining a program of long-term sobriety is within reach for those willing to subscribe. Support networks and fellowship ameliorate the process of changing nearly every aspect of one's life in service to recovery.
Men and women in early recovery are not alone. Unlike when one is in the grips of active addiction, people with a commitment to sobriety have others in their corner willing to be of service. When old thinking crops up in a person’s mind, they do not have to bear it in solitude, hoping they can resist the temptation to use. Instead, those whose recovery comes into jeopardy can turn to their support group for guidance. Together, we can work through individual problems; by working the problem, we can find collective solutions.
Looking Outward for Inward Guidance in Recovery
Anyone in treatment, inpatient or otherwise, and transitional living learn to rely on their peers for guidance on navigating the often-turbulent waters of early sobriety. Such people are encouraged to turn to those who have been on the path longer than them, to learn how they handled situations that could upend one’s program. An excellent suggestion to adhere to in recovery: whenever a person is unsure of how to handle a situation, ask for advice. A support group, including one’s sponsor or other forms of recovery mentors, can impart valuable bits of wisdom that can help people decide, for instance, whether something can imperil a program.
Relapse is a fact of life, but it does not have to be a part of your story. Those who’ve recently embarked upon the Journey are sometimes inclined to keep things to him or herself; it is common to fear what others might think about you if you open yourself up, for varying reasons. We all have a natural desire to present ourselves as having it all together to our peers; some worry that if they are thinking incorrectly about some facet of the program, then they will be judged. Such fears are real in recovery. While an inclination to keep thoughts to oneself is understandable, they do little good. That’s not to say men and women should share with the entire group about sensitive subjects or things that confuse them about recovery; instead, it is paramount that each person has at least one other individual they can confide in for how to do the next “right” thing.
Transitioning Into Recovery
Early recovery is the perfect embodiment of transition. Moving out of the pernicious darkness of active addiction into the empowering light of recovery is a process. Healing doesn't happen overnight and does not make perfect that which is flawed; what it does do is provide a vehicle for men and women to manage the symptoms of mental illness so that may lead a fulfilling and productive life. Those who stay on track, follow direction and heed the wisdom of others have an opportunity to change their lives and affect change in the lives of others.
It is salient that each person new to sobriety set him or herself to task and establish a rapport with people they can confide in within their immediate support group. When in meetings or at groups in treatment or sober living, look for individuals who share a commensurate dedication with you to avoid the trappings of selfish thinking. Again, whenever there is uncertainty about what the next right move is in life—ask. Someone else has undoubtedly dealt with a similar situation. Together, lasting recovery is possible for all.
The Haven at Pismo strongly emphasizes to our clients the vital importance of supporting one and another, working together to lay a strong foundation for long-term sobriety. We offer detox and residential treatment on the Central Coast of California. Please contact us to learn how we can help you renew to your best today.
1-805-202-3440
