The Benefits of Social Connection During Recovery

Staying Connected to Friends and Family Aids Mental Health and Recovery

Recovery from drug or alcohol addiction can be tough, especially if you were a long-term user. While recovery is always a work in progress, there are certain things that you can do in order to help aid in the overall recovery process. Not only is your mind in a state of recovery, but your body is as well which is why it is important to focus on all aspects of your recovery. 

During substance abuse rehabilitation, developing social connections have proven to boost mental health and aid in the overall recovery. Strengthen connects can help us live happier lives where we feel more secure is forming meaningful relationships with ourselves and others. When individuals feel stressed, they often turn to loved ones, family, and friends in order to help them ease their symptoms. This is why it is so important to cultivate meaningful relationships and connect to others during addiction recovery.

Staying Socially Connected

When you are recovering from an addiction, it’s important that you keep both mentally and physically busy. Firstly, this will allow you to meet new people and create new friendships and secondly, it will keep you from becoming bored and possibly resorted back to substance abuse. Some of the various activities that will help you meet new people and stay connected to sobriety are:

• Joining yoga classes
• Attending art/painting tutorials
• Joining a running group
• Attending Alumni events
• Partaking in support groups

It’s important that individuals connect with others who are going through similar obstacles as they are, as this way they will be able to better relate to one another. When individuals are going through similar struggles, they are able to learn and grow together while also helping in sustaining their sobriety.  By surrounding yourself with individuals who are committed to their sobriety, you will have a better chance at maintaining your sober streak. 

Maintaining Motivation in Recovery

The value of connection in recovery is unparalleled, is truly fundamental, and is often undervalued. When you are connected to people that matter and things that make you feel great, you become more motivated to carry on in your sobriety. By having connections on emotional, physical, and mental levels, you are adhering to all areas of recovery, not simply one. Mental recovery is the most important as a positive mind has the capacity to change your entire outlook on life. When you surround yourself with people and activities that promote sustained sobriety, your quality of life can improve drastically. 

If you are a recovering addict, it’s important that you dedicate time to yourself and become self-aware as this will encourage balance. Meditation has proven to be very effective in allowing individuals to tune into their inner thoughts which lets them connect to themselves. Even a simple conversation with an individual who you trust and is willing to listen and care about what you are saying can be the difference between sustained sobriety and relapse. 

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.