“Never go at it alone” – that is exactly the kind of phrase you have to bear in mind when you start enduring withdrawal and rehabilitation. No matter how tough the situation can get, you can always turn to someone to lean on. That, at least, was the concept Dr. Bob and Bill W. created after founding the group Alcoholics Anonymous back in the 1930s. Through the effort of two alcoholic companions, the foundations of an organization that would touch the world took root. After the establishment of AA, rehabilitation centers across the United States began shifting policies, and the idea of the “sponsor” made its way into regular practice outside AA. So how can you become a sponsor and help a fellow recovering addict break away from alcohol? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
Announcing Your Interest
If you are in a support group outside rehab, the first step is to let everyone around you know that you are ready and willing to become a sponsor (as simple as that). However, in typical fashion, the newcomers will be more likely to ask you to become their sponsor. More often than not, sponsors are well-rounded, experienced patients who have already undergone treatment or are nearly done with it. Here are some reasons why:
- The sponsor must make a newcomer feel comfortable and welcome.
- Newcomers must seek out a sponsor on their time.
- Newcomers do not always want or need a sponsor.
- Newcomers are the only people who can determine if they need a sponsor.
You do not need any training to become a sponsor at organization like AA. Experience is enough. However, try to get a feel for the steps and rule of your program (or association) before you set your sights on taking this responsibility. Remember, being a sponsor is a full-time job, and you must be willing to answer calls from the person you are helping (at every hour of the night).
Good Traits of Sponsors
Sponsors are addicts, too, but their experience is the key to building a healthy relationship wit someone they are helping. Some good traits of a quality sponsor are:
- Sympathizing and empathizing with the newcomer’s struggle (including anger and depression)
- Being tough and disciplined whenever an emergency situation arises
- Being patient and understanding if a newcomers takes a while to warm up to you
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.
