Many people who are getting ready to stop using alcohol or drugs worry that they will not fit in or be accepted if they no longer use these substances. This may be because they know that their friends and family drink or do drugs, so they worry that they will be seen differently if they don’t use them. You can, however, fit in and still be accepted if you don’t use these substances.
You Don’t Need Alcohol Or Drugs To Fit In
It’s unfortunate how much of our culture thrives on drinking and using drugs. Many people think that using alcohol or drugs is a normal way to bond with others. They may think that these substances are vital to having a good time. This just isn’t true. You don’t need these substances to fit in with others. Good friends will accept you for who you are and what you bring to the friendship, not how much you can drink alcohol or use drugs. You probably first bonded with your friends over shared interests, not because of these substances. Take a look back at the start of your relationships and rekindle that bond. If your friends are truly judging you for the fact that you are now sober, then they may not be the friends you need in your life at this time.
Find A Common Ground
Like we mentioned before, you should find a common ground with your friends and family members. Did you become friends over your love of the same sports team or because you both like to read? Revisit those conversations instead of focusing on substance use to guide the conversation. Let your relationships happen naturally so that you feel like you fit in because of who you are, not what you do.
Make New Friends
If your old friends are judging you because you no longer drink alcohol or do drugs, step away from those relationships. You are allowed to make new friends in your recovery. Seek out a group that helps you flourish in your sobriety, not tear you down because of it. Find groups to fit into that support your decision to not use substances. Even if it isn’t the group you’re used to, you’re going to find somewhere you fit in that accepts you even though you don’t use substances.
The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare is here to help you be confident in the new you. Sobriety is a great thing. Don’t let others make you feel like you are less than them because you don’t use anymore. Be your own person and love yourself for who you are. If you are struggling with substance use, call us today at (844) 413-2690. We can’t wait to speak with you!