Are you struggling to make sober friends?
The road to recovery is different for everyone, but it often means that you have to cut ties with old friends that might have encouraged you to drink to use drugs. Starting over with new friends might seem impossible, but it can be done. Keep reading to find out some ways to make sober friends.
Ways to Make Sober Friends
Making sober friends isn’t difficult if you put in a little effort. Here are five ways you can start building your sobriety tribe today:
1. Join a Recovery Group
If you’re not already in an AA group or 12-step program you should consider joining one. These programs have tons of benefits for those who are trying to get sober, including connecting you to others in your area that are on the same journey.
Everyone at these meetings will want to avoid alcohol or drugs as much as you do, and you can all encourage each other to make positive changes.
2. Explore Social Media
Social media is a great tool for connecting with people both in your community and around the world. First, start with your friends. Maybe reach out to a friend you knew in the past and see if you can reconnect.
Also search for Facebook groups that support recovery and sobriety. These online support groups are a great way to meet people. Some of them have thousands of members, so there are likely some people in your area.
3. Try a New Hobby
Recovery is a great time to find a new hobby. Before you were likely spending a lot of time focused on drinking or using, and now you need a productive way to fill the time. Try taking a new class or learning a new skill.
Meetup.com is a great way to start. They have groups of people who all have common interests, and they can help you find a new passion. They have hiking groups, running clubs, food clubs, craft clubs and so much more.
4. Sweat it Out
Fitness is a great way to meet new people. Getting into a good workout routine can also help you avoid relapsing. Join a new gym or attend a new workout class. This forces you to be around new people that you know share a common interest.
Try and get into a routine so you see the same people at every class, and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself. Just like dating, meeting new friends means putting yourself out there.
5. Start a Blog
This one is a bit unconventional, but sharing your journey to sobriety openly online will help you connect to a new community of people who have been through the same things.
Blog about your experience and share your posts on social media with addiction recovery hashtags. Like we mentioned earlier, there are a ton of online communities full of people looking to connect and make sober friends.
Find More Support With Your Recovery Process
Recovery is a difficult journey, but having a solid support system with sober friends in place will make things easier for you. If you find yourself struggling, you’re not alone and we have resources that can help.
Check out the rest of our blog for more advice and support for living a sober life. We have articles on surviving the holiday season, relapse prevention and so much more.