When someone walks the path from addiction to recovery, it is rarely one someone can, or should, travel alone. The hard work of achieving sobriety is something that requires personal determination and commitment to oneself, but this doesn’t mean you’re on your own. The power of community support through Symetria Recovery‘s IOP Program is often an important foundation for long-term sobriety.
The Healing Power of Community
Addiction is an isolating disease, with the feelings of being alone becoming both a symptom and a factor in struggling to maintain sobriety. Support is essential when recovering from addiction, but many individuals struggle with finding someone who truly understands what they’re going through.
Those who have never personally struggled with addiction can have a difficult time understanding it. Friends and family may think that all the person needs to do is simply stop drinking or using drugs. Addiction is a disease, and recovery isn’t as simple as going cold turkey. Recovery is multi-faceted and isn’t just about having willpower.
Support groups play a vital role in providing the support and sense of community that many people need to achieve and maintain sobriety. Recovery support groups are generally smaller groups, ranging anywhere from about five to twenty people, with ten to twelve participants per group being more typical.
The support group environment creates a safe space for individuals to connect with others who can truly understand their experiences. For many, the support group environment can feel like a safe haven, where they can breathe, and share their feelings or experiences, without fear of judgment.
Support Groups Vs Group Therapy: Is There a Difference?
The terms “support groups” and “group therapy” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Both can play a key role in contributing to sobriety but in different ways.
Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and SMART Recovery, are typically peer-led organizations where members share their experiences and offer mutual support and encouragement without professional intervention.
Support groups are meant to be supportive of addiction treatment, but are not part of a professional treatment plan. Individuals may come and go from support groups as they choose because these sessions are focused on support, community and group success, rather than treatment.
Group therapy, on the other hand, is a form of professional treatment that is led by licensed therapists or counselors who guide members through structured therapeutic processes as a group. Group therapy sessions may employ specific clinical recovery techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. With group therapy, there are clearly defined therapeutic goals for each participant, and there is an expectation that each member will attend regular meetings.
7 Benefits Support Groups Offer for Long Term Recovery
Reprieve from Isolation: Through support groups, members experience a sense of community and relief in finally being able to connect with others who understand the struggles of recovery. The group setting reduces isolation and the feelings of “being different: which are often part of the recovery process.
Emotional Validation: During recovery, it can feel as though you’re on an island, and that nobody understands your feelings or experiences. These types of feelings can contribute to an increased risk of relapse. In the group setting, participants can have their feelings and experiences validated by peers who have also faced similar challenges.
Accountability: Personal accountability is central to long-term sobriety. Support groups provide both accountability and structure. The group as a whole can develop expectations for each person to participate and commit, leading to a feeling of accountability. Members will often feel responsible for the group to maintain sobriety. Plus, the routine of attending regular support groups is helpful in maintaining recovery.
Safe Space for Expression: It’s not always easy for individuals in recovery to feel that they can express themselves without fear of judgment from those who don’t understand their journey. Support groups offer a non-judgemental environment to share feelings and the freedom to discuss challenges openly. Support groups are also a good place to practice honest communication skills.
Hope for the Future: There are members at every stage of their recovery in the group setting. Participants are exposed to individuals who have achieved long-term sobriety and there’s the opportunity to learn from other’s success stories. Witnessing the progress, accomplishments, and milestones of other group participants can provide a sense of hope for the future.
Education and Coping Tools: The educational benefits of support groups are invaluable throughout the recovery journey. Members can continually learn more about addiction and the recovery process while learning to identify and manage their own personal triggers and risk factors.
Develop Sober Friendships: Building a sober network through support groups provides a foundation for lasting recovery. As individuals engage with the support group community, they develop healthy relationships and create sober social circles that extend beyond the formal meetings. This is an important step in discovering opportunities for sober social activities that demonstrate what it looks like to enjoy life without substances.
Support Groups and Their Role in Preventing Relapse
Relapse is often perceived as a failure, but it’s actually a normal part of the journey toward sobriety. While this doesn’t apply to everyone, the majority of individuals will experience some level of relapse within one year of treatment.
Relapse happens in three stages, with the final stage being the one where the sobriety is broken. Being part of a support group makes it possible for other members to identify the early warning signs of relapse and help the individual recognize this within themselves.
Support groups can also help provide coping strategies and tools, and offer immediate support during an individual’s most vulnerable moments. The regular accountability and check-ins can help keep members on track and committed.
Integrating Support Groups with Professional Treatment
While support groups are important tools in contributing to society, they are often not enough on their own, especially for those who are early in their recovery journey. Support groups work best as part of a comprehensive recovery plan that includes:
- Professional counseling
- Medical treatment as needed
- Support group participation
- Healthy lifestyle changes
- Family involvement
Symetria Recovery offers IOP Programs in Illinois and Texas to be sure that you can find the right program to help you.
Finding Your Support Network
Beginning the search for a support group can feel overwhelming, but taking the time to assess your personal needs is an important first step. Many communities offer multiple options for different days, times, and overall themes of the group – for example, support groups specifically for women, men, or couples.
It’s important to consider practical aspects such as your schedule and availability. It’s best to find a support group that you know you’ll be able to attend regularly. It’s also important to consider your comfort level with different group sizes and formats, as well as if you would feel more comfortable with same-gender or mixed-gender groups.
Additionally, there may be groups available that focus on specific substances, behaviors, or other factors that contribute to addiction behaviors, such as previous trauma.
Once you understand your needs, the next step is researching what options are available in your community. Treatment providers can be a key resource for recommendations and often have firsthand knowledge of all the local support groups, and how effective they are. Online meeting locators are also available to help you find support in your area. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is an excellent resource for finding help across the United States.
Final Thoughts
The road to long-term sobriety isn’t one that needs to be traveled alone. Support groups offer the community, support, guidance, and understanding that is necessary for lasting recovery. Whether you prefer the traditional 12-step format or an alternative approach, there are support groups to fit every need.
Remember that seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness. It shows that you understand the need for support and that you’re committed to your recovery journey. If you’re considering joining a support group, reach out to us at Symetria Recovery. We’re here to help you find the recovery treatment and support you need.