Social Sobriety
By: Tim Varner
Tags: Addiction, Self Improvement, Recovery, Social Media, Mental Health

Photo by Noah Buscher on Unsplash

A Network Introduction

When it comes to getting sober, surrounding lives matter as much as your own. Peer pressure can pose problems to the youth as well as the seasoned. Unforeseen circumstances and triggers are everywhere we journey, and without living life in a shell, you will undoubtedly face constant struggles.

The rooms we attend, the readings we indulge in have proven useful beyond a reason of doubt. But what happens in the off-hours? When those outlets aren’t enough?

A social network I have discovered has proven detrimental to my recovery. With an easily downloadable app name ‘Social Grid’, you gain access to a world of addiction and recovery from people struggling the same as you.

How It Works

With the free sign-up, you are allowed access to stories, postings, daily tasks, and conversations on all things recovery. This incredible app supplies a “trigger” button if you’re having a bad day, and upon hitting that button, millions will reach out to you with encouraging words and stories. The support this program allows is unparalleled to any other form of social media. Referred to personally as the “Facebook for Addicts,” I have never found a negative word or deterring comment during my participation in this application.

With four daily quests for each participant to complete, it allows the constant routine and journey continuation through subtle ways. Your quests include:

Reading the daily inspiration-

With readings varying between AA and NA script you will always find something to take away and a lesson to be learned no matter your condition or disease.

Check-In-

As with any therapy group you may attend, checking-in is a way to express your views on the day. Many I have attended use a method of “Mind, body and spirit” to describe any emotions that you may possess at that time. With ‘Sober Grid’, the check-in consists of a questionnaire to determine the professional support you have sought after, anything on your mind, as well as an emoji scale of your mood. Completing this every day allows to you record your progress and any triumphs or downfalls you experience.

Write a Gratitude List-

Completing a gratitude list can prove overwhelmingly supportive. Taking the time to mentally retreat and consider all things that have brought you to the here and now is crucial in recovery. No matter how big or small they may be, being grateful for the gifts you receive is an important step.

Commenting on a Post-

Whether you are a social butterfly or a closet sloth, this task allows you to provide support to another struggling with the same denominator as you. A heartfelt note or a simple thumbs-up can provide a day-changing moment for anyone.

What Participation Provides

Many attendees in the groups I have been in as well as online sources question the relevancy of their individual words and how what they think can pose useful to anyone. I have learned, just as millions of others, the “pay it forward” idea is what keeps this program of recovery alive. As simplistic as a head-nod or engaged listening ear will captivate even the newest members providing them with a sense of comfort. I have also come to determine the sheer fact of letting the world know that you are triggered or having an “off” day, provides the realization that this disease never quits. No matter how “on-track” I may be, knowing someone else is still struggling, hones me in and humbles my mentality. This disease of addiction is a cunning and baffling venture but is one the survivors needn’t ignore nor forget. Providing insight, stories, and words of support allow the community to grow. We need to welcome all with open arms and provide a haven for all who suffer.

The End Result

Jails, Institutions, or death, are the three outcomes if I choose to stop my pursuit. The ability to breathe fresh air and walk with an upright stride has given me more incentive to continue this path. I realize millions are as I was when it comes to the rooms. The fear of attending, the obscure thought of judgment, and the unwillingness to admit powerlessness, kept me alone and drinking for more than half of my life. Once I was able to realize it was the rooms or the grave, I never turned back. Taking the first step is the hardest obstacle to climb, but once you do it is an easy and pride-filled path to self-discovery and success. We were always able to get off our butt and trudge forward to find our drink or drug, as long as we can put that same determination into recovery, lives will be saved.

If you’re unsure of where to begin or still in a faze of shame, I encourage each and every one of you to download this amazing app. ‘Sober Grid’ provides an outlet for everyone across the globe and allows you to express your thoughts from the comfort of your home. Working together is the only way we can keep this cliche “train” rolling. With your support, this online community can grow to provide the world with a sober mind.