It can be difficult to deal with unsupportive people during the recovery process, but there are a few strategies that may be helpful:
- Set boundaries: It’s important to communicate your needs and boundaries to the unsupportive person and to let them know what behavior is and is not acceptable.
- Seek support from others: Surround yourself with supportive people who can provide you with the encouragement and understanding you need during your recovery journey. This could include friends, family members, support groups, or a therapist.
- Focus on your own recovery: Don’t let the negativity of unsupportive people derail your progress. Stay focused on your own recovery goals and the positive changes you are making in your life.
- Take care of yourself: Make sure you are taking care of your physical and emotional well-being by getting enough rest, eating healthy, and engaging in self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
- Seek professional help: If the unsupportive person is causing significant stress or interfering with your recovery, it may be helpful to seek the guidance of a therapist or counselor. They can provide you with additional support and help you develop strategies for coping with difficult situations.
IMPORTANT: Surround Yourself With Positive People
One of the most important things you can do for recovery is ditch the unsupportive people and spend your time with positive people that do support you.
A good way to do this is to research sober clubs and organizations within your community. That way you can start doing networking and you may be able to start connecting with a lot of positive people with similar backgrounds and interests. They will most likely also be on a similar recovery journey like you.
A lot of people might not be supportive of your decision because they don’t understand what you are going through. Make sure to give it time, as this can be a lot to process all at once, especially for those who are just now finding out about your substance use. Have an honest conversation with them when the time is right. They might come around once they better understand what you are going through. If not, focus on the positive people that support you.