Whether sober or not, the phrase “social event” can feel like a storm brewing on the horizon; generating anxiety and fear. For people in early recovery, things like weddings, work parties, or family gatherings often come with the very triggers they’ve been working so hard to avoid: alcohol, old habits, and high stress. How are you supposed to navigate a champagne toast or dodge the well-meaning aunt pressuring you with a drink in hand? This is where working with a sober companion can make all the difference.
Think of a sober companion as a mix of one part guide, one part coach, and one part supportive friend. The role of a personal recovery assistant isn’t just about keeping you sober; it’s about helping you figure out how to live your life in recovery without feeling like you’re constantly walking on eggshells.
With regards to social situations, they might help you map out a plan before the event. How long are you going to stay? Are there likely to be triggers, like an open bar or a certain relative who always offers you a drink? How will you respond to questions about why you’re not drinking? What’s your exit strategy if things get overwhelming? These are the kinds of scenarios a sober companion helps you think through, so you’re not caught off guard.
During the event, they’re there to provide subtle support. They might distract you if a craving strikes, offer grounding techniques to ease anxiety, or act as an accountability partner. Oftentimes the simple act of having someone there who understands what’s at stake can make all the difference.
Social events in early recovery can be a minefield. That’s a fact. Alcohol is often the centerpiece of celebrations, and people may unintentionally trigger you with probing questions or careless remarks. And it’s not just the presence of alcohol or drugs that can feel overwhelming; emotional triggers can be just as challenging. Maybe it’s seeing a former drinking buddy or feeling isolated in a crowd of people who seem to have no idea what you’ve been through.
The initial reaction to all this can be to avoid social events all together. But that does no one any good. Recovery is about getting back to your life, not running away from it. Heading into these situations without preparation can be risky though, especially in the early stages of recovery. That’s why having a personal recovery assistant can be a lifeline. They help you approach these situations with a game plan and the reassurance that you’re not going through it alone.
The answer is yes - and no. Recovery is ultimately about your quality of life. It means regaining confidence and independence to live life on life’s terms. But that doesn’t mean you have to tackle every challenge that pops up only our own right out of the gate. In fact, recognizing when you need help and being willing to accept it are huge signs of growth. Over time, as you gain strength and experience, you may not need a sober companion. In the beginning though, a little extra insurance is only going to help.
People will hire a sober companion for a single event and then end up working with them for far longer. They are often surprised by the skills and strategies they learn that serve them long after their companion is gone.
Recovery can sometimes feel isolating, especially in social situations where it seems like everyone else is operating in a completely different reality. Having someone by your side who understands the challenges of sobriety can be a powerful reminder that you’re not alone in this journey.
A sober companion can help bridge the gap between early recovery and the life you’re working to create. If you’d like to learn more about what sober companions are and how they can help in early recovery, call Hired Power today. Sometimes, having someone in your corner can make all the difference.