Relationships play a crucial role both in addiction risk and recovery. The people we associate with have a large influence over our thoughts, actions, behaviors, feelings, decisions, and much more. When you spend time with someone who has a negative outlook on life or engages in risky behaviors, there is a chance that you might start acting this way too. However, when you’re surrounded with people who have a bright disposition and partake in healthy activities, they can have a positive influence on your life.
When it comes to addiction and recovery, men and women are affected differently. Crossroads employs gender-responsive treatment to meet the unique needs of each group and ensure that important issues are addressed. Relationships are a vital factor for women, and learning how to focus on creating healthy ones is essential. Healthy relationships can support women in thriving in recovery and enjoying long-term sobriety.
Make your well-being and recovery a priority: Women often focus on helping everyone else first. In addiction recovery, they must put themselves first. Making changes that stick takes commitment, so women must keep in mind their own needs and how to create balance so that they’re not putting their sobriety in jeopardy.
Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to reach out to others. If women are going through a rough patch, facing temptation, or feel as though they need additional support, make sure there are people to turn to and actually use these resources. Having this guidance can provide motivation and encouragement to keep moving forward.
Learn to work through conflict: Instead of letting issues fester, implement the communication and problem-solving skills learned in rehab to work through challenges. Talk things out and come to a mutually agreeable solution. Avoiding conflict and letting issues escalate can increase risk of relapse because it can be tempting to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of coping.
Spend time with others as well as alone: It is great to have a supportive group of friends to turn to and spend time with. They can come along when trying new activities or simply enjoying a sober outing. However, learning to do things independently is encouraged as well. Women should get in touch with their own interests and build confidence that they can do things on their own and be successful. Some alone time can be good for re-energizing and relaxing.
Practice honesty: Women often don’t want to hurt others’ feelings, but practicing honesty can go a long way in recovery. Being honest about one’s needs and opinions can help to stay on the path to recovery. Women should know that their feelings matter and they deserve as much respect as anyone else. Speak up.
Have confidence: Along the same lines, part of developing healthy relationships is having the confidence to stand up for oneself. With a strong support system and the right strategies in place, women can assert their independence and rights and do what is best for their recovery and future. Don’t put up with others who are constantly negative or sharing put-downs. Individuals in recovery work very hard to get where they are and deserve to have the support and encouragement to continue excelling.
When forming and building relationships, women need to make their own well-being a priority and associate with people who are supportive of the positive changes they have made in their lives. Crossroads helps women to develop these skills and learn healthy ways of coping with challenges and creating an environment where they can thrive. Lasting recovery is possible with the right plan in place, and Crossroads can help women to overcome obstacles and get the treatment they need.
[cta] Is substance use taking a toll on your relationships? Contact Crossroads today to turn your life around for the better. [/cta]
