Author: Charles Frank
National Sober Active Community
They considered the online communities to be free of stigma and a home for finding social interaction they lacked elsewhere in life. If you network on behalf of your employer, you’re likely trying to bring in new clients and keep current ones happy. In situations and jobs where “relationship-building” is at the center, it’s not uncommon to see alcohol combined with socializing, despite its impact on employees and owners. The biggest benefit of online support groups is that you can attend from almost anywhere without having to commute or drive to the meeting location. This is particularly helpful for smaller support organizations that don’t have many locations, allowing you to attend, even if you don’t live near a meeting location.
You’re less likely to walk away thinking “I can’t believe I forgot to say…” or “I just wasn’t my best” if you’re conversating sober. Many of the support groups on this list offer free services or request an optional donation — so there isn’t any pressure to pay beyond what you can afford. However, talking with a professional therapist or coach usually comes at a higher cost. There is also a newsfeed option to share inspirational quotes, messages, or your own personal story with the community. The app allows you to share your location (if you chose to share it) and helps you locate other people using the app in your area.
What are the 7 steps of sobriety?
These virtual communities operate around the clock, providing continuous access to support and information vital for those in isolated areas or different time zones. This article presents 8 proven methods to help you stay sober in 2024 and beyond. From building a strong support network to giving back to the recovery community, we’ll explore practical steps you can take today. Join our supportive sober community where each day becomes a step towards personal growth and lasting positive change. It is also a resource for connecting with help and support you need, whenever, wherever, and however you need it. Sober App also provides tools and resources for studying, discussing, and working AA’s 12 Steps and Traditions.
If you choose to attend the meeting, you won’t be expected to talk unless you want to. Plus, an additional monthly subscription plan for $99 a month (following a free trial) allows unlimited texts and voice calls with a recovery coach. Another feature of the app is a “burning desire” button that you can press to notify your group that you are having a difficult time and are thinking about drinking or using again soon. Meetings are offered in-person (however, they have temporarily switched to video conference due to COVID-19) and are free to attend. A $2–$5 silent donation is encouraged if participants are able to give one.
- While Loosid and Club Soda are more geared toward socializing, LifeRing and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) are focused on recovery.
- This is particularly helpful for smaller support organizations that don’t have many locations, allowing you to attend, even if you don’t live near a meeting location.
- Embrace the power of connection, integrate a variety of supports, and experience the profound impact a sober support network can offer.
- Faith-based recovery programs have been a cornerstone for countless individuals seeking solace and strength.
- WFS aims to help women deal with addiction by minimizing negative behaviors and growing their sense of self-value, self-worth, and self-efficacy.
Continue Therapy or Counseling
To make sobriety stick, find a strong support system, establish healthy routines, and set realistic goals. Stay committed to your recovery, seek help when needed, and celebrate your progress along the way. Some alternatives include SMART Recovery, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and other professional treatment approaches that focus on different aspects of addiction recovery.
Develop Sober Friendships
WFS provides a message board, online text chat, private Facebook group, and phone support. The New Life acceptance statements focus on building strength through compassion, care, self-love, and growth. The program teaches 13 acceptance statements that encourage emotional and spiritual growth. Certified facilitators lead the online and in-person programs, which focus on positive reinforcement, cognitive strategies, relaxation techniques, and group involvement.
Health Challenges
Based on our review, seven online addiction support groups stand out as being among the best. Check out the Sober Powered Podcast to learn more about how alcohol affects the brain. We do not receive any commission or fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a caller chooses. Soberistas does not focus on a formal methodology like AA or SMART Recovery, but it provides multiple avenues to connect its 67,500-plus members through chat rooms, forums, and even a book club.
LifeRing offers online and in-person meetings that promote self-empowerment rather than belief in a higher power, making it a good alternative to faith-based recovery groups. To make sober fun, explore activities that don’t involve alcohol or substances. Join hobby groups, participate in sports, go on outdoor adventures, attend cultural events, or host sober gatherings with friends.
While the majority of these groups are free to join, some do require a monthly or annual investment. The paid subscription groups generally come with additional features, like direct expert support and 24/7 access to recovery coaches. If you are not satisfied with our flavor or experience, email us via and we’ll take care of you. Whether it’s “casual” drinks at the office, wine at a company dinner, or beer while trying to close a deal, alcohol is a socially acceptable element of business in some places. If you feel that you need additional help, organizations like Recovery Centers of America (RCA) offer treatment, medically managed intensive inpatient treatment, and rehabilitation.
While online groups offer comfort from behind a screen, in-person meetings can provide valuable relationship building and support. The cost of alcohol recovery programs can create a barrier for some people to access support. While some insurance providers have limitations on covering rehabilitation centers, most support groups are completely free. Using live meetings and discussion groups, In The Rooms connects people around the world with others in recovery. The organization recommends using its online tools in addition to face-to-face meetings. These online tools have been a substitute connection method for members during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why You Need to Consider Sober Networking in 2023
Women for Sobriety (WFS) was founded in 1975 as a not-for-profit organization helping women recover from substance use. The organization offers both online and in-person support groups run by certified moderators and chat leaders. If you wish to speak to someone one-on-one, there are also phone volunteers who can help you. While members may also attend different groups or follow other sobriety teachings, some people come to LifeRing after finding that other programs did not work for them.