Finding Strength Together: The Value of Support Groups in Substance Use Recovery
Finding Strength Together: The Value of Support Groups in Substance Use Recovery
If you’ve ever tried to make a change on your own—especially one as emotionally complex as cutting back or quitting substance use—you know how difficult it can be. Progress often comes in waves, and setbacks can feel overwhelming. It’s a lonely place to be.
That’s where support groups can make a profound difference.
As someone who has walked this path personally and professionally, I’ve seen the power of connection. In my early sobriety, I leaned heavily on SMART Recovery. Today, I continue my growth through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), working closely with a sponsor. Both paths have offered unique value, and I’ve come to believe that mentorship—whatever the structure—is an invaluable part of healing.
Why Peer Support Matters
Support groups provide more than just a place to talk—they offer accountability, encouragement, and the reminder that you are not alone. Whether online or in-person, these communities help normalize your experience and give you a safe space to learn, reflect, and grow.
They can also:
Ease the isolation that often comes with substance use struggles
Help you find motivation through the stories of others
Give you a place to celebrate small wins without judgment
Keep you grounded in your values and goals
Two Common Paths—Both Worth Exploring
SMART Recovery
This secular, evidence-based approach focuses on self-management, blending tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing. SMART Recovery emphasizes:
Building motivation
Managing urges
Reframing thoughts and behaviors
Creating a meaningful, balanced life
For those who are looking for a structured, skill-building model without a spiritual component, SMART can be a powerful starting point.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
AA offers a deeply supportive community rooted in spiritual principles (not religious doctrine), mutual aid, and personal accountability. While it isn’t for everyone, many—myself included—find the fellowship, sponsorship, and 12-step process to be both grounding and transformative.
The emphasis on ongoing mentorship through sponsorship can be particularly impactful, providing a consistent relationship for support and guidance.
It’s Not Either/Or
You don’t have to choose one over the other forever. Many people explore multiple communities to find the right fit—or use them alongside therapy to support long-term change. The key is to keep reaching out, even if your path looks different from someone else’s.
Closing Thoughts
Recovery is not about perfection—it’s about progress, support, and self-discovery. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your recovery, groups like SMART Recovery and AA can offer steady support as you navigate life without substances.
If you’d like someone to walk beside you through the process, therapy can be a powerful complement to the work you’re doing in community. I’d be honored to support you.
