Recovery can be an incredibly isolating experience. Whether a person is recovering from traumatic events, post-traumatic stress disorder, or an addiction to drugs or alcohol, isolation can complicate many steps of the recovery process, and without the impact of supportive individuals, communities, or a feeling of belonging, it can be incredibly difficult to motivate oneself to continue their own recovery. Staying connected on a regular basis with established supports or communities with shared hobbies is paramount for addressing the complicated and detrimental effects of isolation through recovery. However, “staying connected” is more than just meeting up in person on a regular basis, and there are a number of ways that each person can continue to be an active part of their own recovery communities.
Many Options with Just a Phone
Regular phone calls are one of the most accessible ways to stay connected with others, especially during the continued social-distancing parameters in place due to the coronavirus pandemic. Hearing another’s voice can create a sense of closeness that may not be physically possible at a certain time, and thus can create a more intimate experience in an effort to stay connected. Smartphones may even have video calling programs that can further the experience by allowing those in recovery to see their supports, helping to continue to break down walls that may be in place through feelings of isolation. Text messages also can hold merit if a person in recovery is in need of expressing their stresses to a support while the support may not be readily available, such as in the middle of the night after a difficult nightmare or lack of sleep.
Just Keep the Conversation Going
Whether a person is in recovery to help them cope with traumatic experiences or addiction, keeping connected is very important. However, that doesn’t mean every single conversation has to revolve around one’s experience if they don’t feel like sharing at that time. Addressing these complicated issues is exhausting, and staying connected can mean simply talking to friends and loved ones about a recent television show episode, a book they are reading, or just catching up on current events. Normalizing conversation on any level creates a safe atmosphere to open a dialogue and address the feelings of isolation while also mitigating stress.
Keeping connected and involved in various communities is an essential part of the recovery experience, and crucial in addressing feelings of isolation that may be present as a result of trauma, addiction, and/or any co-occurring mental health disorders. At The Guest House, we understand the essential role that peers, professionals, and personal supports all play through the recovery process, and work with you to create a program that incorporates individual therapy, group therapy, and even family planning to help you explore your options and goals in your journey through recovery. For more information on how we can help you, or to talk to a caring, trained professional about our other various approaches to your personalized program, call us today at (855) 483-7800.