Be Welcoming, but Not Overwhelming
When you meet a newcomer in your addiction recovery program, be friendly and welcoming. New to the program and sobriety, newcomers may feel nervous and intimidated. Introducing yourself and letting them know you are there for support will help ease their anxieties. Although a warm welcome is helpful, be sure to give newcomers their space. Because addiction recovery is difficult, you do not want to overwhelm newcomers with information. Instead, it is best to let them come to you if they need support.
Lead By Example
The best way to help a newcomer adjust to your recovery program is to lead by example. As a veteran of the program, others look to you for guidance. To ensure newcomers stay on the path to recovery, show them that you are on the path yourself. Live by the teachings of your recovery program to encourage newcomers to implement those skills and lead a healthy, fulfilling, and sober lifestyle.
Relate Your Experiences
In addition to leading by example, offer your guidance and support to others. Like everyone in the recovery program, you struggle with addiction. Share your experiences with addiction and recovery to provide some guidance. But be careful, because guidance can easily seem patronizing advice. To make sure newcomers feel comfortable talking with you, only offer your guidance if they welcome it. Additionally, keep in mind that you are not a licensed counselor or psychiatrist. You cannot tell individuals how to live their lives. Instead, you can simply share your experiences and hope that they learn.
If you or a loved one is struggling with drug and/or alcohol Addiction and in need of Treatment Services, please contact Adult and Teen Challenge Wisconsin today at 414-748-HELP(4357) or email Intake@teenchallengeonline.com. We offer many services including the following but not limited to:
- Free alcohol & drug rehabilitation as well as other drug abuse (AODA) treatment programs
- Heroin and Opiate help
- Residential Treatment Centers for both men and women
- Sober living houses
