Recovering from substance use disorder (SUD) as an adult is challenging enough; being a teen in recovery is even harder. As a teen, you may encounter way more triggering situations or may be unable to escape people who frequently engage with substances.
If you are a teen who has suffered and recovered from SUD, you know that you and substances don't go well together. They can cause a lack of control, making it hard for you to relate to your peers. That can be tough to overcome.
Luckily, you're not the only teenager who's ever been in recovery. There are tried and true ways that you can stay sober and still enjoy everything your teen years have to offer as you make your way into adulthood.
There is a stereotype that is reinforced through media and advertisements that you can't have fun at a party unless you use substances. If you're in college, drinking and substance use are billed as "part of the experience." These images and expectations can damage you in your impressionable teen years.
These stereotypes are not true, but how do you know when it can seem like everyone around you is sneaking out to go drinking with their friends? If you are in recovery, you know you cannot participate in those types of things. Since you've been through the hard work of recovery, you know that substance use could make you lose everything.
When managing triggers and staying on the path of recovery, one of the most important things you can do is rely on your friends for help. After entering recovery, the odds are that your social circle has changed. You may have had to cut things off with friends that you used to use with. Now, you can build a support system of sober friends.
Whether they're friends you met through treatment or friends you had before who have always been sober, these people are the ones you can go to when you are having a hard time. Maybe you were triggered by a situation, or perhaps you're just having a rough day. Your sober friends can be there for you, especially if they are also in recovery. They can be people you can be honest and vulnerable with so they can provide support, accountability, and encouragement.
While it may seem like many of your peers want to party and experiment with substances, you know you can't be a part of that. Luckily, this is not the only way to have fun.
There is a big misconception that you become boring when you get sober. The opposite can be true. Getting sober is like getting a second chance at life; there is real freedom.
Now, you can decide what you want to do and who you want to be. You get to make your own fun. To some, that could be going to the movies. For others, it might be playing a sport or learning a craft or hobby. Whatever it is, find what makes you happy and let those activities be what help keep you sober.
Avoiding triggers is a lot easier said than done. Sometimes a triggering situation is thrust upon you. So here are some things you can do to limit your exposure to people and circumstances that could put your sobriety in danger.
Each person's recovery journey is different. Everyone has a different tolerance threshold. Some people in recovery can go to parties where everyone is drinking and be fine. However, that's not true for most people.
The important thing about managing triggers is knowing where you are and are uncomfortable. Maybe seeing drunk people makes you feel triggered. Perhaps the smell of marijuana brings on cravings. Even situations where emotions are running high may make you want to return to substance use. Whatever limits you may have, know what they are and do what you must to stay within them.
Sometimes you can't avoid triggering situations. What do you do if you find yourself in one?
The first thing to do is keep calm. If you start to panic, you may make fear-based decisions, not logic-based ones. Take some deep breaths and keep a level head.
Next, set boundaries or exit the situation. In some scenarios, you can't just leave. However, you can express your boundaries by saying things like, "I don't appreciate when you…" or, "It makes me really uncomfortable when you…." This way, people can clearly understand what you need and change their behavior to help you.
If they don't comply, you can always exit the situation. This could look like going to another room or going outside and walking. Do whatever you need to to get yourself out of the situation.
Lastly, there are plenty of resources out there that can help teens in recovery. One of the best things is finding a local support group. Support groups are great for voicing your thoughts and feelings and recognizing that you're not alone.
While it may seem like an endless challenge to stay sober in your teen years, know that you can do it, you are strong enough to face challenging problems and triggers. So many people are willing to support you and don't want to see you fail. If you struggle to stay sober and manage triggers and nothing seems to be working, reach out to a treatment center for help. NorthStar Transitions in Boulder, CO, is more than happy to help keep you sober. We offer support for those who are having issues with substance abuse. If you or someone you know needs treatment, call us today at (303) 558-6400.
