Episode 6 - Socializing

Foundations Recovery LIVE

This episode talks about socializing while in active addiction or during/after recovery treatment, from the perspective of a social host/friend or family member and the attendee who is in active addiction or in recovery.
This episode references an Article from Kelly E Green PhD, LP – Navigating Addiction in the Holiday Season

My main take aways from the article that I share and relate to my personal experiences are the following:

Let your values guide you instead of your fears

Don’t outright exclude a person from a social event

Social support is a powerful resource to especially one in recovery

De-emphasize alcohol at social gatherings, but do not eliminate it all together

May backfire-feelings of distrust, ruining the party for others

***If someone really wants to use drugs or alcohol, they will find a way whether you serve it or not.

As a recovering substance abuser/addict, understand that alcohol WILL be served and readily available to guests of the social event.

TIP: Bring your own non alcoholic beverages

Connect instead of control

You are not responsible for whether the person stays sober or not. You cannot control their addiction or recovery, but you can choose to connect with them in meaningful ways.

Stigma keeps you from having compassion and kindness

What would you do if the person struggling with addiction were instead struggling with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or Alzheimer’s?
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