using my support network

8/3/2019 Using My Support Network

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Therapists Overview

USING MY SUPPORT NETWORK

GOALS OF THE EXERCISE

1. Maintain a program of recovery that is free of addictive patterns and

excessive anxiety.

2. Identify the ways a support network can assist in recovery.

3. Learn to work with others versus trying to sustain recovery alone.

4. Form relationships that will enhance a recovery support system.

ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS FOR WHICH THIS EXERCISE MAY BEUSEFUL

Adult-Child-of-an-Alcoholic (ACOA) Traits

Chronic Pain

Dependent Traits

Depression

Grief/Loss Unresolved

Opioid Dependence

Peer Group Negativity

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Relapse Proneness

Sexual Promiscuity

Self-Care DeficitsPrimary

Self-Care DeficitsSecondary

Substance Abuse/Dependence

Substance Intoxication/Withdrawal

Suicidal Ideation

SUGGESTIONS FOR PROCESSING THIS EXERCISE WITH CLIENT

The Using My Support Network activity is for clients who have difficulty with

shame and isolation that impedes their seeking and accepting support from

others for therapeutic goals. Its approach is to guide the client in identifying

potential sources of support from among family members, coworkers, and in

other domains of life, and thinking through ways to assertively seek support and

help from those people, anticipating and solving problems that may arise in

doing so. Follow-up could include homework


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assignments to talk with the people identified in this exercise and ask for their

support, then report back to the therapist and group on the outcomes.


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EXERCISE XXXVI.B

USING MY SUPPORT NETWORK

It is common for people dealing with substance abuse or other addictivepatterns toisolate themselves and to feel embarrassed or ashamed about their histories.Also, some feel that since they got themselves into the messes they are inalone, they need to solve their problems alone. However, people embarking onthis journey benefit when they seek help from others who care about them, or

who are succeeding at the same goals. This exercise will get you started usingthe support of helpful people to increase your chances of success in makingthese lifestyle changes.

1. The supportive people I can ask to help me stay in recovery from my

addiction are:

Family:

Friends:

Work/School:

Church/spiritual community:

Recovery community:

Other(s):

2. Three benefits I will get from letting these people support what I am doing

are:

3. The biggest obstacle or barrier for me in asking for assistance is:


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EXERCISE XXXVI.B

4. The best thing that could happen when I ask someone for help is:

5. The worst thing that could happen when I ask someone for help is:

6. What I will tell these people about how I would like them to help me:

Be sure to bring this handout back to your next therapy session, and be

prepared to talk about your thoughts and feelings about the exercise.

using my support network

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