The Importance of Community in Long-Term Recovery

At Flatirons Recovery, we believe entering an addiction and mental health treatment program is only the first step on a lifelong journey. Once a client completes their multi-staged treatment program, they begin transitioning back into independent living. At this point, building community becomes exceptionally important. For many, a strong recovery community means the difference between long-term recovery and relapse. 

We assist clients in building their recovery communities in long-term recovery in a variety of ways. Our robust Alumni Program allows past clients to stay connected with one another and participate in a variety of recovery-friendly events and activities. Additionally, we teach clients how to build community for themselves through participation in 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous and recreational group activities that will bolster their sobriety. 

If you or someone you love has been struggling with a substance use disorder and is ready to take the initial steps on the journey towards long-term recovery, contact us today. We are looking forward to speaking with you soon and answering any additional questions you might have. 

Connection — The Opposite of Addiction 

It is often said that connection is the opposite of addiction. Active addiction strips people of their innate inclination to bond, commune, and relate to others. Interpersonal relationships are compromised and traded in for chemical substances and isolation. By its very nature, addiction is a condition that breeds loneliness. 

When a person enters into addiction recovery, they must re-learn how to develop healthy relationships with others. At Flatirons Recovery, we provide our clients with a structured and safe environment where they support each other as they navigate early sobriety. Our Alumni Program allows past clients the opportunity to stay connected. We regularly host outings, events, and 12-step meetings for those who have previously been through our program. 

The Importance of Building a Recovery Community 

Building a robust recovery community is crucial to long-term sobriety. It might seem like a difficult hurdle to overcome, especially for those who have been isolated for years. Fortunately, those who attend a longer-term treatment program often have an advantage. They are able to develop friendships with like-minded peers in their treatment groups. They help one another overcome the challenges and obstacles that go hand-in-hand with early sobriety. 

Building a recovery community is important for several reasons. Firstly, having a group of people to rely on in the face of adversity is crucial. When someone new to sobriety finds themselves in a bind, they know they have the support of friends who understand what they are going through. Secondly, building a community helps keep people accountable. Finally, people are less likely to return to drinking or drug use the more connected they are. Community is a fundamental part of relapse prevention. 

Benefits of a Recovery Community 

Additional benefits of building a recovery community include:

• Combatting the feelings of loneliness that often go hand-in-hand with active addiction and early sobriety. 
• Connecting with others who have had similar life experiences. 
• Ongoing support leads to improved mental and emotional health. 
• The ability to work on developing stronger social skills, including healthy communication, conflict resolution, and setting and maintaining personal boundaries. 
• Motivation to begin living a healthier lifestyle overall. 

How to Build a Community in Addiction Recovery 

How does one go about building a community in addiction recovery? As previously mentioned, attending an inpatient treatment program is an ideal place to start. We also recommend: 

• Participating in a 12-step program, which typically looks like finding a sponsor, working the steps, and attending meetings on a regular basis. 
• Finding a recovery-friendly recreational activity involving a group, like yoga classes, a running club, or a volleyball league. 
• Fellowshipping as much as possible. This means spending time with other 12-step program members before or after meetings. 
• Participating in an Alumni Program. Most treatment centers offer alumni-based activities for past program participants. 

Building Community at Flatirons Recovery 

The mission of Flatirons Recovery is to walk alongside our clients as they heal from addiction. We hope they leave our comprehensive treatment program with greater clarity of purpose, connection to a community, and the ability to take positive action in their lives. Community is an integral part of our recovery program. 

What differentiates Flatirons Recovery from other treatment providers is our mindfulness-based curriculum and our holistic approach to recovery. Our highly skilled and compassionate clinical staff provides outstanding care that meets clients where they are. We carefully guide our clients through the process of healing from a wide range of substance use disorders and mental health issues.

Contact Us Today to Learn More 

Finding effective addiction treatment in Colorado might feel overwhelming, especially if you aren’t sure what step to take first. At Flatirons Recovery, we take the guesswork out of receiving quality clinical care. Our dedicated team of licensed addiction specialists is standing by to help guide you or your loved one toward addiction treatment and a life of gratitude and fulfillment. All you need to do is make initial contact.

We look forward to speaking with you soon and helping you begin your healing journey as quickly as possible, contact us today!