When it comes to addiction recovery, there’s a profession that often goes unnoticed: the sober companion. If you or a loved one is transitioning from treatment to recovery and finding it challenging to stay sober, a sober companion can be a valuable asset. This article will shed light on what a sober companion does and how they can support you in your recovery journey.
Millions of people in the United States struggle with addiction, whether it’s substance use disorder or behavioral addiction. While seeking treatment is the crucial first step, maintaining sobriety after leaving a treatment facility can be daunting. That’s where a sober companion can make a difference. Understanding their role and the support they provide can help you determine if having a sober companion is right for you.
A sober companion is an individual who works with clients in recovery or those who have recently completed a treatment program. Their primary objective is to help clients maintain their hard-earned sobriety. This involves assisting them in abstaining from substance use, accompanying them to meetings, and helping establish healthy routines. Moreover, they play a vital role in preparing clients for life after treatment, connecting them with sponsors, and recommending additional resources for ongoing support.
Companionship is a crucial aspect of the sober companion’s role. The journey of recovery can be both beautiful and challenging, especially when facing it alone. Sober companions provide emotional support and lessen feelings of isolation, which can be detrimental to someone new to recovery. Their presence helps individuals navigate the transitional period and increases the chances of long-term recovery success.
Different types of sober companion services are available to cater to your specific needs. If you’re returning home alone and estranged from family or friends, a live-in sober companion can help you remove any triggers from your environment and even assist in rebuilding those relationships. On the other hand, if you prefer support on an on-call basis, a sober companion can act as a trusted confidant and offer consistent monitoring, help develop healthier lifestyle changes, and provide solutions to manage triggers and cravings.
Sober companions come from various backgrounds, and while many have personal experience with recovery, anyone can enter this field. Some sober companions are considered peer support workers, as they have successfully achieved and maintained their own recovery and can offer personal advice and support to clients. They advocate for people in recovery, provide valuable resources, mentor and set goals, facilitate recovery group meetings, and offer other addiction counseling services.
One of the significant benefits of having a sober companion is the reduction in the risk of relapse. Addiction is a chronic condition, and relapse is common. While relapse cannot always be prevented, a sober companion can help navigate its aftermath and assist in developing strategies to prevent future relapses.
If you’ve recently completed an addiction treatment program and are struggling with the challenges of post-treatment life, reaching out to a sober companion can make a positive impact on your recovery journey. Sober companions offer companionship, emotional support, and a range of other services tailored to individuals new to recovery. Contact a professional today to explore the benefits of sober companionship and remember, if you need treatment, call Radius Recovery.
