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How Do You Build A Positive Support System?

Written by Brandon Okey. Mina Draskovic, B.Psy., reviewed this content for accuracy.

When someone’s in addiction recovery, it’s vital they have a support system that is positive and healthy. The right support team can make a big difference in the individual’s recovery from substance abuse or mental health disorders. Find out how to build a positive support system in today’s blog.  

The Importance of a Positive Support System

A key factor in someone’s healing is dependent on surrounding themselves with a positive support system, including friends, family, and leaders. These people can be the helping hand or shoulder to lean on when times are tough. They can soldier them on and help them be accountable for their goals for recovery. Without a support system, addicts may not have the desire or capability to overcome their addiction.   So, how do you build a positive support system if you’re in recovery or planning on it? Here are 5 tips to help you.  

Tips for Building a Positive Support System

The first thing you should do is figure out what you’re looking for in a friend or a support system. It’s important to choose people with whom you have a good relationship and mentally and emotionally handle the effects of rehab and recovery. Ask yourself these questions: Do I feel respected by this person? Do I trust this person? Do I think this person will be able to handle it? Does this person allow me to feel good about myself? Does this person bring out the best qualities in me? Here are 5 more tips to consider.  
  1. Connect with a professional. It may be helpful to enlist the help of a counselor who can not only help you with your daily challenges, but they can give you tips and advice on picking a support system.
  2. Attend a support group. Seeing how a support group functions is a great way to meet people working on similar goals and help you understand your current situation and form connections. If you don’t have one in your city, go online; there are many support groups with which to choose.
  3. Accept help. This is tough because we all have our pride, but recognizing you need help, and asking for it takes courage. Once you do, though, you will be surprised how many people will be there for you, asking what they can do to help. Note to tell them how they can help, ensuring you’re brief but specific. 
  4. Be patient with yourself and with them. The journey to recovery can be arduous and filled with uncertainties. When changing your behavior, you need to be patient with yourself and those who may have distanced themselves out of fear, anger, or frustration. Give them time to come around and be your advocate. They love you and want what’s best for you, but they may need to process their feelings too before they get on board as a support person.
  5. Practice gratitude. Remember, your support system is taking time (and maybe money) out of their daily life because they care and love you. Appreciate their efforts by telling them and showing them. A simple, “Thank you for the ride, I really appreciate it,” can do wonders. Everyone likes to know they matter and that their help is not in vain. 
 

Ardu Recovery Center Cares

Let us be part of your support system by contacting our center today. We understand the journey from addiction to recovery has its challenges, and our staff is here to ensure you get the best support and care. With holistic treatments and counseling to get you back on track, you can take back your life from addiction.
Brandon Okey

Brandon Okey is the co-founder of Ardu Recovery Center and is dedicated to empowering people on their journey to sobriety.