Whether you have been sober for years or you only recently completed treatment at a drug abuse rehab, recovery comes with a large amount of uncharted territory that can be hard to navigate. While you may have been taught new coping strategies to deal with addiction cravings or started to practice mindfulness during treatment, no one can fully prepare you for life outside of treatment.
For some recovering addicts or alcoholics, telling people you’re in recovery is a large hurdle that can be intimidating and cause anxiety. While this can be stressful, at Clearbrook, we are sharing some tips on when and how to tell people you are in recovery.
When to Tell Someone You Are Sober
Unfortunately, there may never be a perfect moment to tell someone you’re a recovering addict, but that doesn’t mean you should hide it. How soon you decide to tell people you are in recovery will depend on your relationship as well as how comfortable you are with them.
It is up to you when you tell someone you are in recovery, but if you start building a close relationship with them, it is important that you do eventually tell them. Telling someone about your sobriety can be a weight off of your shoulders, so the sooner you tell someone, the better you will probably feel. Most people will be supportive and can be another ally for your sobriety once they are aware.
Knowing when to tell someone you are sober can be especially challenging when it comes to dating. While you may not feel comfortable bringing it up on the first date, once you start dating someone more seriously, you need to tell them. If you are looking for a life partner, you want to make sure that you do not get too involved before discovering that they may not be okay with it.
How to Tell Someone You Are in Recovery
No matter how close you are with someone, telling people you’re in recovery can be intimidating. You may be scared that they will judge you or think of you differently. Though you may be hesitant to do so, our inpatient center is offering some advice on how to tell someone you are a recovering addict or alcoholic.
Do Not Worry About Being Judged
While not everyone may be as supportive as you like, the people who care about you the most will be supportive. If someone is going to judge you for your sobriety, they may not be someone you want in your life.
Do Not Make It A Big Deal
While it may seem like a huge deal to you, you do not need to overreact. The bigger deal you make it, the more likely the person is going to be concerned, and the more questions you are inviting on the topic. Relax. When you are able to play it off, the person will likely respond in a similar fashion.
Keep It Simple
Instead of getting yourself all worked up and preparing a long explanation, a simple, “I’m in recovery” or “I am sober” will often suffice. You can elaborate on your addiction and recovery later if you feel comfortable. Most people will leave it at that, but if they do ask a question, you can tell them that you don’t want to talk about it.
Tell Those Who Matter
While some people may be more open about their sobriety, you do not need to tell people you are in recovery if you do not want to. You should tell your friends and family, but people you aren’t that close with, like your coworkers, do not need to know if you don’t want them to.
As a detox center in Laurel Run, we know that recovery is a long and trying journey. It extends far beyond just quitting your substance abuse. Therefore, you want a treatment center that will be there for you every step of the way, including long after your program is over. If you or a loved one is ready to take that first step, call us today at 570-536-9621. At Clearbrook Treatment Centers, also known as Wilkes-Barre Treatment, we want to help.
