For better or worse, human beings are social creatures who love to talk to each other, share thoughts and feelings, and want to feel loved and cared for. They form friendships and relationships, but sometimes peer pressure is part of the journey. It can derail recovery to feel people putting pressure on you to perform or do things you’re not ready to do right now. Find ways to heal from this experience and move forward in recovery.
Peer Pressure
People of all ages are impacted by peer pressure. Kids and teens are most at risk, but even adults can find themselves doing or thinking things they might not have done or thought alone in a group. It helps to reformulate peer pressure first of all. Groups influence people, tasts, and standards. There are cultural norms of conformity people ascribe to in order to please family members. The opinions of others hold sway over our lives and we don’t always realize it is happening until it feels like peer pressure.
Sober Measures
Refusing to drink with colleagues and friends, or use drugs, can result in peer pressure. You may not realize it, but by accepting this group or not being influenced by them, you are choosing something important. Some people are sensitive to being told no when someone doesn’t want something and they may put pressure on you. It may be a boss or group of people who say this is how it is done. You have to tell them no, you don’t do that now in recovery, and don’t feel obligated to share why. Your sobriety is yours, but don’t jeopardize it for others. As you learn to say no to other people, you will find they either don’t invite you in or you feel more confident in your surroundings and don’t have to ask permission anymore. Some of the following tips may also be helpful:
- Don’t go to social gatherings that may involve alcohol if you are not confident you can say no. have a plan to not drink and have water or something else to deter questions
- Take a sober friend with who will help if things get weird
- Have someone on call to text or message if needed
Quite often, peer pressure comes from others feeling the pressure, too. They may welcome your sobriety as a sign that they also can say no if they choose, or maybe they are fighting a battle nobody knows about and they desperately need to get out of the situation and find hope and healing.
The Guest House believes everyone is struggling and needs hope and healing. We provide a safe space to be vulnerable and find the healing you need in recovery. Call us to find out more: 855-483-7800.