Addiction is an insidious disease that damages and destroys what people need in order to heal from it: relationships. The good news is that relationships can be healed and support systems can be rebuilt using good communication and honesty. Studies have shown that, for people who are in recovery from alcohol or drug abuse, having a strong support system is the most important component of their recovery process.
What is a support system? Who can be part of a support system? How can someone develop the skills they need to heal old relationships and build new ones? Learning more about the importance of a support system can be empowering, especially for someone who is just beginning their recovery.
What Role Does the Family Play in a Support System?
When someone in a family is struggling with addiction, the effects can be wide-ranging. It is hard when a family member is suffering but doesn’t feel understood. It can also be hard to watch a beloved family member spiral out of control. These stressful family dynamics often have a large impact on relationships within the family. Therefore, it’s important to address these dynamics within the therapeutic process of addiction treatment.
It can be immensely helpful, not only to the person who is living with addiction, but also to the entire family, to participate in a family therapy program. In fact, family therapy can help all members of the family feel as if their feelings are being heard and honored. It can also help repair old wounds that might be contributing to unhealthy dynamics.
Can People Other Than Family Members Be Part of a Support System?
In fact, it is very important for people who are in recovery from addiction that they feel engaged with their community. A sense of belonging can go a long way toward helping people who are struggling feel as if they have the love and support of people around them. Some of the non-family members who can be considered part of a support system are:
- Friends
- Co-workers
- Church members
- Neighbors
- Peers from a support group
- Therapists
- Clergy members
- Teachers
What Skills Are Needed in Order to Build a Strong Support System?
The most vital skill for everyone involved in a support system is good communication. In order to be effective, a support system must be made up of people who are willing to not only offer support, but also communicate with loving honesty. However, communication skills don’t just develop on their own. In fact, they take practice—as well as a dash of bravery.
It can be a little intimidating at times to be open with others and express your real feelings. This is especially true when you are worried that the other person won’t take it well. Despite that, honesty and integrity are essential when offering true support. This is another concept that is often helpful to address during the therapeutic process.
What Are Some Benefits of Having a Strong Support System?
In addition to the obvious benefits of having strong, caring relationships with others, there are many benefits to having a strong support system for someone who is in recovery from addiction. These benefits include:
- Staying accountable
- Having someone to talk to who is supportive of recovery
- Socializing with people in a sober environment
- Having people who know their struggle and will help protect them from temptation
These are all benefits that come from a good support system.
Build Your Support System at Recovery Bay
If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, today is a good day to take the first step toward recovery. Recovery Bay is a substance abuse and mental health treatment facility in Panama City, Florida serving men ages 18+. Reach out to us today at 833.991.2955.