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Now that you are involved in a 12-Step program of recovery for your addiction, whether alcohol, drugs, gambling, over-eating, sexual, etc., it is very important to have a network that will support your goal to succeed. Following are five ways that may help strengthen your support so you may succeed.
Five Ways to Build Your 12-Step Support Network:
1. A fellowship of 12-Step members: This is your strongest support in your 12-Step network. These are the people who understand how your program works, the meaning of your addiction, the consequences of relapse, and the benefits of abstinence. These are the members you can safely call on when you find yourself in need of unconditional support.
2. Family members: Your immediate family members are likely to be more willing to make an effort and get involved in your recovery, maybe even the ones who may appreciate your relapse prevention efforts. Besides, your family members are the ones who have seen your worst side and are more likely to welcome the more pleasant, new you.
3. Friends who are knowledgeable about addictions: Though your friends may only have surface knowledge of your addiction, it's you chance to be proactive and help them understand how addictions affect people's lives. They probably know someone in their lives they can make the association with. You won't know unless you share with them.
4. People who understand your need for abstinence: Get involved with people who understand the meaning of abstinence. Some people may say it's okay to do/have just a little, they'll keep an eye on you and you'll be okay. These types of people do not fully understand the concept of abstinence, or the serious consequences of relapse.
5. People who will not place your hard earned efforts in jeopardy: Some people actually don't understand addictions and may call it ‘an act of the will' and may even say to you, ‘come on, let's go here or there, all you have to do is not participate in your addiction'. They may mean well, but you don't want to place yourself in a situation you, and they may regret later.
Success in your recovery really depends on your efforts to make it work for you, and part of that effort must involve having a plan of action. In this case it is to build your 12-Step support network. By strengthening your support network, you increase your chances for success with your recovery goals.
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