If you are familiar with the program Alcoholics Anonymous, then you most definitely know about the 12-step program and the concept of group counseling that has made them so unique. However, once particular concept adopted by AA has also traced its way into regular therapy: sponsors. When you lay the facts on the table, you will begin to understand that no one understands the long, difficult path to sobriety better than someone who has actually walked it. Interestingly (and predictably), research throughout the years has proven that having a sponsor (particularly at an early recovery phase) can reduce the changes of relapsing into alcohol use again and guarantees a strong healing process. After all, camaraderie is healthier than being lonely. Let’s take a closer look at how you can find a sponsor who works best with you.
Defining a Sponsor
So, what exactly is a sponsor? Simply put, this is an individual who is far along in the recovery process who (simply put) serves as a coach to a freshly recovering alcoholic. During this relationship, a sponsor will share their stories about withdrawal, detox, and rehabilitation to motivate the newcomer. Likewise, these men and women can serve as confidantes who you can call if you feel the urge to drink or need a shoulder to cry on. For years, they have worked with programs (including Alcoholics Anonymous) to help new addicts overcome their terrible illnesses.
So How Do You Get One?
Besides the obvious gesture toward Alcoholics Anonymous, we can tell you that there are other ways to obtain a sponsor, which will definitely come in hand when you are undergoing rehab. Here are some ways you can look for your new coach:
- Outside rehab, attend some 12-step meetings at Alcoholics Anonymous.
- Looking for a sponsor with experience (no novices for you).
- Never choose a member of the opposite sex to be your sponsor, as this can lead to romantic complications down the line.
- Only choose a person you can sincerely trust.
- Double check to make sure they can be available to help you.
- Take a sponsor from a different background than you.
- MOST IMPORTANTLY: Take a sponsor that has a wonderfully positive outlook on life.
Always remember that drugs and alcohol do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction troubles today.
