Simply being sober for 28 days doesn't always constitute a successful recovery. A long-term outpatient therapy program can keep you steadfast in your resolve and, at the same time, help you become a stronger version of yourself. Some outpatient therapy programs also include training in practices that promote growth, such as mindfulness meditation. Healthy intimacy during recovery creates an integrated support system with a partner who knows how difficult it is to undergo treatment and learn to live a sober life.
Boyd and Mieczkowski (1990) reported that the women in their study stated that their friends, mothers, or sisters were the people most likely to help them stay sober. The members of the network who supported the recovery were valued for their willingness to talk directly with women about the difficulties of the latter and the need for a change in their lives. The women in this study reported a number of barriers and limitations in their lives with respect to maintaining sobriety when returning to the community. While many substance abuse treatment programs find it difficult to involve family members in treating women, the women in this study suggested a series of simple tasks, such as “bringing things,” “bringing things,” doing for, and “doing with,” that can contribute to feeling supported.
Research has shown that people with substance use disorder are much more likely to succeed if they live in a sober space, especially in the early stages of recovery. However, Lam, Wechsberg and Zule (200) found that living with a partner could be a positive support for African-American women who use drugs.
