Getting Plugged into Local Recovery: The Best Way to Prevent Relapse
Asana Recovery Alumni Newsletter, May 12, 2023
Getting Plugged into a Local Recovery Community: The Best Way to Prevent Relapse
Most people have a long list of things to do upon leaving inpatient treatment. Some of these are fun things they’ve been looking forward to like hugging a family member or sleeping in their own bed. Some of these are obligatory, even stressful, necessities like applying for jobs.
But the most important task - the thing that is both most vital and most urgent - is getting plugged into a local recovery group and/or sober support network.
There are a number of reasons why this task should top your to-do list when returning home (or even before you leave treatment). They include:
The opportunity to continue the recovery work you began in treatment - without losing momentum.
You’re less likely to relapse with the accountability and emotional support provided by a 12-step home group. Read more about relapse prevention.
Addiction is a disease that thrives in isolation. Having a supportive network of people - who are not only sober but understand the work involved in staying that way - is essential. Read more about the importance of a sober support network.
Tips for Getting Plugged into a Local Recovery Community
Go to many different meetings. Every meeting has a different format and “flavor.” Plus, the people who attend meetings will be different. You may find that you feel more comfortable or can relate to members of one meeting more than another.
Choose a home group. Going to numerous meetings each week is important, but it’s also important to choose one that is your home group. You’ll feel more invested, and connected and have opportunities for service work, another tool for relapse prevention.
Take advantage of technology. One of the positive consequences of the Covid pandemic is that it led to a huge increase in the number of options for online meetings. You can find an online meeting any hour of the day, any day of the week. This is ideal if you live in a small community, have limited transportation or can’t fit live meetings into your schedule.
If you’re having trouble finding a local or online meeting, contact your Asana Recovery admissions counselor. They can help connect you with resources!
May Alumni Gathering Canceled
Due to the number of graduation events this month, as well as Mother’s Day, the May Asana Recovery Alumni gathering will be canceled. We look forward to seeing you in June!
Alum Spotlight
Every month, we publish a feature about an Asana Recovery alum in our Spotlight section. We hope you can learn from their experiences, be inspired by their recovery and keep updated on your fellow alumni.
If you’d like to be featured in a Spotlight, please contact your admissions counselor. If you don’t have their contact info, check the list below:
Kimberly Brave: 405-999-0550
Jim Bell: 405-833-4838
Lyndsay Gasser: 949-922-0180
Krystal Smith: 949-244-6822