It is crucial to remember that anyone could be a recovering addict. This includes college and university students. Although helping all individuals in addiction treatment and recovery is fairly similar, there are some additional things to keep in mind when considering a recovering addict who is a student. There may be some special resources available on campus as well. Here is how to be an ally to a student in addiction recovery.
Be Helpful and Supportive
When helping anyone who has gone through Austin drug detox it is crucial to be helpful and supportive. Similarly, you should avoid being condescending or judgemental. This will make the recovering addict feel more comfortable with talking to you, opening up, and possibly receiving your help.
Know What Resources are Available on Campus
It is important to know what resources are available on campus for recovering addicts when acting as an ally. These could include things like special housing, support groups, therapists, and more. On-campus resources vary from school to school, so it is crucial that you do the necessary research on what your campus has to offer. This information can often be found on your college or university’s website. In addition to this, you should be aware of what your campus health clinic has available and where they are located in the case of an emergency.
Know the Difference Between Sober and Substance Free Housing
Many college and university campuses offer various types of special housing for their students. These often include both sober housing and substance free housing. These are both great living environments, but it is crucial that you understand the difference between the two. Sober housing is available for those who are seeking to live in an alcohol and drug free environment. However, this is not catered to recovering addicts and is more for those who are simply making a lifestyle choice. “Substance-free housing is also available for recovering addicts on their path to healthy sober living. Although not specifically made for students, regular sober living can be a good place for them”, says Mat Gorman, CEO at Eudaimonia Recovery Homes.
Don’t Forget to Check in
Like with being an ally for any recovering addict, it is still important to check up on how student recovering addicts are doing. This includes asking about things like mental health, their addiction recovery or treatment, and how they are doing and feeling in general. In addition to this, it is important that you seek help for an individual that doesn’t seem quite right. This could indicate a relapse, mental breakdown, or a possible future relapse.
Conclusion
Although being an ally to a student going through addiction recovery is fairly similar to being an ally to any other recovering addict, there are some extra things that you should consider. These additional considerations include knowing the difference between sober and substance free housing, knowing what resources are available on your campus, and knowing where your on campus health clinic is in the case of an emergency. In addition to this, it is important to remain helpful and supportive and to remember to check up on recovering addicts. Although this is true for any type of individual going through addiction treatment or recovery, these elements are so important for a safe and smooth recovery that they are crucial to be reminded of.
