Many people find comfort in talking to others who have been through similar situations when faced with overwhelming life events. Talking to a group or person, trusting their words, and seeking their advice will help you realize the importance of peer support in your recovery.
What is Peer Support?
A 2016 study entitled “Benefits and use of peer support groups for the treatment of addiction” defined peer support as the act of giving or receiving nonprofessional, nonclinical help from others in similar circumstances. Its goal is to help people with addictions, psychiatric and other problems recover from long-term alcohol and drug abuse.
Peer support groups are a widely recognized concept. There has been a significant increase in the use of various peer support group services to help recover from substance abuse disorders. These groups include:
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12-Step groups These groups meet at various locations each week.
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Clinical support groups – They are located in clinics like hospitals and outpatient clinics.
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Mutual support groups – These support groups are open to all family and friends of those who have overcome addiction.
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Online support groups – These support groups are accessible on certain websites and offer forums for social media support.
How Does it Work ?
Peer support is an essential component of addiction recovery used in many mental and behavioral health treatment programs. As they overcome addictions to alcohol and drugs together, group members can benefit from the experience of their peers.
Peer support groups, also called self-help groups or mutual support groups, are led by a leader, a social worker, a peer support specialist, or a counselor. The group can help everyone achieve an understanding that may not be possible with other forms of treatment. This helps participants find empathy for others going through similar situations.
They are meant to enhance the rehabilitation process, not to replace therapy. They are combined with individual and inpatient therapy to create a support system that can promote long-term sobriety.
Benefits of Peer Support for Addiction Recovery
Peer support for addiction recovery allows people in the same situation to share their stories, their mental and behavioral struggles with their family, friends, coworkers, and concerns about the future. According to havenhouserecovery.com, these are the benefits of peer support for addiction recovery:
It makes you feel like you’re not the only one.
Addiction can make it difficult to feel understood and isolated. Peer support is a group that allows each member to feel accepted and understood; they are a great way to connect with others who share your struggles.
It is an excellent option for anyone suffering from any condition.
Support groups are available for anyone suffering from any addiction. They are also helpful for those with co-occurring mental disorders like depression. Reliable people with professional experience and relative knowledge can help you navigate the process at your own pace.
This prevents you from relapsing.
Peer support groups are a great way to get emotional support and guidance when you feel the urge to indulge. Support groups can help you resist temptation if you don’t know anyone who has been in a similar situation. You can make new friends and learn skills to overcome cravings, which will help you be less likely to relapse.
Peer support groups can give you something to lose.
According to one research, those in recovery who believe they have something to lose, such as friends, health, work, or personal freedom, are more likely to stay motivated and sustain their abstinence. Knowing that relapsing might ruin or destroy a meaningful connection is a compelling motivation to stay sober.
Support in recovery and sobriety can help with stress management.
Social support can also help you overcome stress and implement coping techniques. Whether you are dealing with day-to-day difficulties or the loss of a loved one, a peer support network may help you identify and healthily understand these things.
Addiction rehabilitation and social support provide hope.
Sometimes recovery may be more challenging than others, but a support group may encourage you when you feel down-and-out. Your peers also provide a safe space for frank dialogue about any personal challenges you are struggling with.
Peer support in addiction rehabilitation provides role models to emulate.
In recovery, role models who have successfully lived a substance-free life are critical. These folks can offer insight, advice, and support when it is most necessary. While broad support is more crucial for overall well-being, research has shown that those people’s opinions regarding drug use and rehabilitation are highly predictive of your own substance use.
A sober support network might help you get through difficult times.
Peer support is critical to keeping your sobriety at these times, especially when you feel like giving in to your cravings and triggers.
Key Takeaway
When confronted with a life-altering incident, many of us seek solace in connecting with others who have been through similar experiences. You’ll recognize how important peer support is in your recovery if you find yourself talking to a specific individual or group, trusting them with your words, and seeking their advice.
Peer support groups, in most situations, do not replace the requirement for official therapy, monitoring, or professional therapeutic advice. This occurs when peers lack the necessary skills to address mental illnesses or high-risk circumstances. Addiction support groups for peers, on the other hand, can supplement rehabilitation provided by reputable professionals.
