Building Strong Support Systems for Lasting Recovery
Episode Overview
Family isn't always the best choice for your support system. Support systems can be informal yet impactful. Hobbies, schedules, and routines are crucial in recovery. Spirituality can provide inner strength during tough times. Choose people who genuinely understand and empathise with your situation.
Support networks are like the roots of a tree that allow it to grow strong and all the way up to the sky because they keep that tree grounded.
In this episode of 'On the Brink: The No Grey Area Podcast', Yosiya and transformational life coach Pamela Reynell tackle the essential topic of maintaining a support system during recovery. Yosiya, who has been sober for 12 months after a prolonged battle with alcohol, shares his personal journey and the pivotal role that support systems have played in his recovery.
Pamela, with her extensive experience in personal and business development, adds depth by comparing support networks to the roots of a tree, emphasising their importance in staying grounded and connected. The episode kicks off with a candid discussion about the misconception that family should automatically be part of one's support system. Yosiya argues that just because someone is a blood relative doesn't mean they're equipped to offer the necessary support.
He stresses the importance of choosing people who genuinely understand and empathise with your situation. Pamela then elaborates on the idea that support systems don't have to be formalised. They can be as simple as a piece of advice from a social media post or an encouraging conversation over the phone. She highlights that these informal supports can be just as impactful as formal ones.
Yosiya also shares his three golden rules for maintaining a robust support system: hobbies, schedules, and routines. He explains how these elements have been transformative in his recovery, helping him fill voids constructively rather than destructively. Writing and exercise have become his therapeutic outlets, keeping his mind sharp and his body healthy. The episode wraps up with a discussion on spirituality as a cornerstone of Yosiya's support system.
He shares how his faith has provided him with inner strength during challenging times, and he concludes with his favourite serenity prayer. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking practical advice on building and maintaining a support system in recovery. It's filled with relatable anecdotes, expert insights, and actionable tips that can make a real difference in your journey. So, are you ready to strengthen your support network and take another step towards lasting recovery?