When you first get clean and sober, you’re warned to stay away from old places, people and things. This often means giving up relationships with people who drink or drug. Doing this may make you feel guilty or even lonely, but it’s a good step towards changing your life and growing in your sobriety. Now that you’re in recovery, it’s time to find new friends. So how can you do this?
Making Friends At 12-Step Meetings
One of the first places you’ll make new friends will be in the 12-step rooms. There are a lot of people in the rooms who once felt (or currently feel) like you do. Getting clean and sober may be scary at first, but you’ll often find that by listening as well as speaking with others at 12-step meetings, you’re never alone.
Start branching out your support network by making friends in the 12-step meetings that you like the most. Often, there will be people who go out to dinner afterward. Make it a point to join people in their after-meeting activities. Talk to them, learn more about them, and find the things you have in common. This is an excellent way to get phone numbers. Once you have phone numbers, start to use them.
Meeting People at Special Recovery Events
Most 12-step meetings have events that take place outside of meetings. Dances, potlucks, and other activities are a great way to meet new people and socialize. Offer to bring something to the next event or show up early and help set up. The more you put into these tasks, the more you’ll get out of them.
Recovery isn’t dull, but it takes an effort to make new friends and learn to have fun in sobriety. You’re worth the effort!
Other Places to Make New Friends
If you’re involved in a church, this is a great place to meet people with similar goals in life. There are also lots of places where people gather with the same hobbies. The possibilities are limitless as long as you focus on meeting people with the same goals as you. Living a life free of substances is one of your most important goals, so don’t join any groups or events where alcohol or drugs are used.
There are other goals that you can pursue without using drugs or drinking. At yoga class you’ll find people looking for a way to de-stress, and in craft stores you’ll find people looking to be more creative in their everyday lives. Focus on your hobbies and don’t be afraid to share you’re in recovery. 12-step programs don’t carry the stigma they once did, and often you’ll find people who aren’t in the program but have similar struggles and goals. Don’t be afraid of learning more about them.
Getting Help for Addiction
In recovery, you’re never alone in your struggles. Getting clean and sober can help you embrace the life you’re meant to live, rather than feeling the shame and pain of active addiction. We want you to find peace and live your best life. Call us to learn more about how our programs can help you. You can reach us at 1-800-970-8774 to learn more.