You’re dealing with one of the most difficult phases of your life: Recovery. You’ve previously overcome a ton of challenges. What’s next?

Well, you’re expected to enter a room full of unfamiliar people and share your most profound secrets and most unfavorable instances. How’s that for an exciting night? Probably not something you are looking forward to.

In the end, it will prove useful. In the beginning, it can be an overwhelming experience.

Now Let’s Get Prepared for Group!

For many, participating in a support group seems terrifying for a multitude of reasons. If you’re surrounded by these terrified individuals, you’re most likely wrestling with a few of the following:

I’m Not Prepared to Share!

That’s okay; you don’t have to. At some point, yes, you should discuss your experience. That’s part of the point of being there. But loosen up, you don’t have to disclose your inner most feelings at the very first meeting. Grant yourself time to get cozy with the setting and the people there. Listen for a while, then you can work your way up to sharing your experience. And even then, you don’t have to speak like a refined legislator. You’re not presenting a campaign speech; you’re just telling your tale.

I’m Ashamed.

Everyone’s story is original. But keep in mind who’s in the space with you, you’re not the only one who’s made errors. Everyone there has comparable journeys. There’s no need to feel pity or humiliation. Keep in mind, you have a lot to provide. Your experience can make an enormous difference in other’s lives.

Will I Be Able to Connect to Everybody?

The relation game can be fatal, so do you yourself a service and steer clear of it. Support groups are typically made up of an assorted audience. Individuals are in different stages of recovery and all come from separate walks of life. It’s okay if you can’t completely relate to every story. It’s okay if no one else reveals the exact experiences you’ve had. Rather than analyzing “success” levels of life, focus on the big picture. You’re all there for one purpose, to recover from addiction.

What If I Don’t Get Something Out of It?

You’ve overheard others testify about the effect that meetings had in their lives. But perhaps you’re having doubts about how advantageous it will be for you. The experience sounds so frightful that you worry it will only be an activity in futility. Try this: Set a goal. Make it minimal. Maybe you begin with discovering a meeting location. Maybe it’s talking to one other person when you’re there. Perhaps it’s just paying attention while others discuss their stories. As you achieve each goal, set a new one. Achieving each small step will give you peace of mind and help you get (and give) more from the therapeutic experience.

How Do I Select a Meeting?

You most likely live near many support locations. Believe it or not, they are all over the place. How do you know which one is right for you? You won’t know, until you go. The good news is, you can try more than one! If one doesn’t feel like a great match, check out a different one the next time. You should ultimately settle on a routine group, but alleviate yourself of the tension of choosing right now. Test the waters, then jump in for a swim. The healing properties of this pool can save your life.

If you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, contact AION Recovery right away. Our trained professionals are standing by 24/7 to help. Call toll free 888-811-2879 anytime.