Addiction is a complex disease and with so many contributing factors, researchers have been exploring for many, many years the multifaceted components that make up someone’s recovery process. Spirituality, abstinence, therapy and more are all significant areas to build in recovery, but one that is enacted – and not as often discussed – is social support. Women in particular may experience different vulnerabilities than men do when it comes to triggers and cravings and social support may be that guiding factor. If you’re a woman in addiction recovery, it’s time to really start thinking about your social network to ponder who is aiding your recovery – and who is hindering it.
As we navigate this road filled with ups and downs, trying to figure out which path to take, it’s difficult to let go of those who may not be helping us in recovery. In a purest sense, letting go is a form of self-care. In order for you to lead a life that you’re incredibly proud of, you’re going to have to change some of the people in your life to reflect what you want.
One woman shared her story with having to let go as part of her addiction recovery via Cosmopolitan. Here is an excerpt from her story:
“…My sobriety changed the dynamics of those relationships and many of them were beyond repair. With some people, it turned out that once we didn’t have booze or drugs between us, we had literally nothing to talk about.”
For many women in recovery, priorities change – and so do friends. A 2014 study published in the journal Qualitative Health Research found that many women, while adding friends to their recovery network, also isolate or distance themselves from others in an attempt to diminish the negative impact that those people have had on their recovery. Ultimately, it’s these connections that grow to be the foundation of your recovery, so you always want to choose those around you wisely.
Cumberland Heights is a nonprofit alcohol and drug-addiction treatment center located on the banks of the Cumberland river in Nashville, Tennessee. On a sprawling 177-acre campus, we are made up of 2 12-Step immersion campuses, 12 outpatient recovery centers and 4 sober living homes. We believe that each person has a unique story to tell – and that’s why we always put the patient first.
Call us today at 1-800-646-9998 to take the next step towards your happiness and health.
