Sponsorship can be an essential part of one’s recovery. Of course, it is not a requirement. However, many people find that not only does it help to keep them sober, but it also keeps recovery fun and engaging. Once you find a sponsor in recovery, it can be that key move that makes the difference between short-term and long-term recovery.
Sponsorship in Recovery
So, what exactly is a sponsor in recovery? Essentially, a sponsor in recovery is someone who has been sober long enough to guide another individual to do the same.
The most common association with sponsorship is 12-Step recovery. In fact, this is where it officially originated. The First Step of 12-Step recovery states, “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol – that our lives had become unmanageable.” The key word there is “we.” Recovery is always about the “we” and never the “me.” It is a community that is built on helping other people succeed.
Do I Need to Find a Sponsor in Recovery?
Now, of course, there are no hard-set rules in recovery. This includes finding a sponsor. However, while there are no set rules in recovery, there are many “recommendations” that are given if someone wishes to avoid a relapse, and relapses are more common than many people may think.
According to the peer-reviewed journal, Current Psychiatry Reports, “It has long been known that addictive disorders are chronic and relapsing in nature. Recent estimates from clinical treatment studies suggest that more than two-thirds of individuals relapse within weeks to months of initiating treatment.” Also, “For 1-year outcomes across alcohol, nicotine, weight, and illicit drug abuse, studies show that more than 85% of individuals relapse and return to drug use within 1 year of treatment.”
So, of course, no one has to find a sponsor in recovery. But, for those who wish to take all the steps that they can to avoid a relapse, getting a sponsor is an easy and painless way to do it.
Choosing a Sponsor
The best way to choose a sponsor is to go to a lot of recovery meetings. This will offer the best idea of what a good sponsor may look like. Usually, it is someone who is willing to share about their own experiences with addiction and recovery.
It is also important to remember that choosing a sponsor in recovery is not something that is set in stone. Many people connect with someone to be their sponsor only to find out that they are not the right fit for them. In that instance, the key is to not get discouraged and go out and connect with another sponsor. Again, there are no rules in recovery, other than doing what it takes to stay sober.
Find a Sponsor: The Benefits
There are many benefits to finding a sponsor. As previously mentioned, the biggest is probably helping to guard against a relapse. The following are just a few more:
- Helps keep us accountable
- Can help with communication skills
- Often helps with advice for family dynamics
- Makes recovery more engaging and fun
- Offers an opportunity to share openly and honestly without fear of judgment
- Can be there when times are tough
- Helps us celebrate when times are good
- Keeps us connected to other aspects of our recovery plan, like therapy and holistic healing methods
Become a Sponsor: The Benefits
One of the best parts about getting a sponsor is that it helps teach us how to be a sponsor. It is important to remember that recovery is about community and giving back what was freely given to us.
Many people forget that sponsorship is also as important for the sponsor’s sobriety as it is for the sponsee. The primary text of 12-Step recovery (commonly referred to as the Big Book) states, “Practical experience shows that nothing will so much insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other [people in recovery]. It works when other activities fail… You can help when no one else can.”
So becoming a sponsor is really a healthy selfish act to protect one’s sobriety. Ultimately, it is really a win-win for both parties involved.
A Focus on Long-Term Sobriety at Lantana Recovery
Here at Lantana Recovery, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” This is why we support the sponsor/sponsee relationship concept in recovery. We know it works because we have experienced it ourselves.
It is important to remember that recovery is all about the journey. The destination is secondary. If we keep making the right moves the destination will be exceptional. It is also important to remember that the journey is much more fun when we take others along for the ride. Recovery is out there, it is time to find a sponsor and go and get it.
Connecting with a sponsor does not always happen right away. Sometimes it is important to work with someone a few times to see if they are the right fit. If not, it is important to seek someone that is. Ultimately, connecting with a sponsor is one of the best ways to ensure long-term recovery. If you feel like you or a loved one are struggling with issues of mental illness, addiction, or both, we can help get you on the right road to recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this alone. For more information about finding a sponsor, during or after treatment, please reach out to Lantana Recovery today at (866) 997-2870.
