Getting help from an addiction treatment program is one of the best things you can do to overcome a substance use disorder. Although your program may include one-on-one counseling and medication, you should also participate in group therapy. Many people overlook the benefits of group counseling sessions for recovery, but peer support can be one of your greatest allies in maintaining your sobriety.
If you’d like to know more about recovery support groups, reach out to Promises Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086. Our evidence-based treatment includes individual and group therapy programs combined with medication management and long-term support through alumni and aftercare groups. Call today to get started.
Why Is Peer Support So Important for Recovery?
It’s understandable if you’re not completely comfortable with the idea of talking about your recovery challenges with a group of strangers. But you shouldn’t write off support groups just yet. While it may take some time for you to warm up to sharing in a group of your peers, it will go a long way toward helping you achieve your recovery goals.
What is it about peer support that makes it so beneficial for recovery? Here are a few things to consider:
- Your peers in recovery are more likely to understand what you’re going through than your loved ones who’ve not personally experienced addiction.
- Support group members may have more compassion and patience with your recovery challenges.
- You might feel more comfortable talking about certain aspects of addiction with others in similar situations.
Although you might be a little nervous when you first join a group therapy program, just getting there is an accomplishment. Take your time acclimating to the group, absorb the discussion, and start to chime in when you’re ready.
The Benefits of Participating in Recovery Support Groups
Participating in support groups offers several advantages for your long-term sobriety, including the following.
Encouragement
At times when you’re feeling low and doubting yourself, your peers in recovery can help lift you up. They’ll be a continual source of encouragement as you navigate sobriety, so you can always lean on the members of your group when you need a little extra support to stay on track.
Accountability
Without accountability, many people eventually lose the motivation to stick to their recovery plan. When you meet with a support group regularly, you’ll have consistent opportunities for accountability, which will keep your goals fresh in your mind. Attending support group meetings renews motivation for a sober lifestyle. This type of consistent accountability is vital for your recovery success.
Guidance
You’ll learn valuable coping strategies during your treatment program, but you might forget these tools when confronted with a trigger or temptation to use. Your peers in recovery will help you find practical ways to apply the strategies you learned in treatment so they’ll eventually become second nature.
Inspiration
When you’re struggling with addiction, quitting can feel impossible. You might also have a difficult time imagining your life without drugs or alcohol, especially if mental health conditions, trauma, and other life stressors contribute to substance misuse. When you participate in recovery groups, you’ll meet others with similar challenges who overcame them and are enjoying a satisfying sober lifestyle. This will show you that a healthy, happy recovery is also possible for you.
Enroll in a Group Therapy Program at Promises Brazos Valley
Embracing the idea of participating in recovery groups can open you up to a new world of possibilities. Peer support reminds you that you’re not alone and that others in your group will have your back throughout. To learn more about support groups for recovery, reach out to Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086 or fill out our online form.