Did you know that the concept of the “sponsor” (as we know in America) actually originated from the group Alcoholics Anonymous? Back in the 1930s, founders Bob Smith and Bill Wilson, two recovering alcoholics, discovered the importance of having a supporter during the recovery process, and, to this day, the organization operates based on the now-famous 12-Step program of rediscovery and healing. While this sobriety model eventually was adopted by other healing groups, AA is still famous for promoting sponsorship and healing alcoholics through a strong bond. “So,” you are asking by this point, “how can I become a sponsor for AA?” Let’s take a closer look and find out.
Meet the Criteria
Ultimately, you should let people in your support group know that you are interested in becoming a sponsor for a fellow alcoholic, which will take you and this person in the right direction simultaneously. In general, though, many new AA members will approach you about becoming their sponsor (not vice versa) for obvious reasons:
- The sponsor must be a person who makes the newcomer feel comfortable and safe.
- Newcomers must carefully make the decision to ask someone to be their sponsors.
- Depending on the nature of their recovery, some people don’t even need sponsors.
- This newcomer will only approach this subject when he/she is ready to do so.
Overall, you do not require any in-depth training to become a sponsor for another Alcoholics Anonymous member. The casual, informal, and friendly environment of AA is what has made this organization so popular, after all. To prepare for the role of sponsorship, you just need to develop an understanding of your responsibilities and be ready to take this next step.
Full-Time Work…Always
In many ways, sponsorship is like parenthood: a 24-hour job over 7 days a week. When your friend needs some advice or requires intervention, you should be there to remind them about why they are attending therapy and rehab. Cravings for drugs and emotional hurricanes can happen at any time, particularly for newcomers, so you should be ready for late-night phone calls and drop-ins from the person you are helping.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Alcohol withdrawal can easily be one of the most frightening aspects of healing. During the course of the recovery process, you will suffer from minor to severe symptoms that may include night sweats, hallucinations, fevers, anxiety, and sadness, but always remember that you can find the strength to overcome these problems. However, you must always seek medical attention when you have decided to cut ties with alcohol, as the withdrawal process can be notoriously dangerous. Never attempt to do this without the supervision of a trained specialist.
If you are suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or alcohol abuse, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
