Navigating Healthy Relationships in Recovery

This article was written and published by RCA.

A network of support can make a world of difference for people in recovery from addiction. The support from friends, loved ones, and peers in recovery can provide a sense of belonging and understanding when navigating the challenges of recovery. However, there are often roadblocks to having healthy relationships in recovery. Codependency and a lack of boundaries can make it difficult to build—or rebuild—trust and connection.

Healthy relationships in recovery are possible, but they take effort from everyone involved. This guide can help you navigate these relationships, whether you’re in recovery yourself or are supporting someone else who is.

Common Challenges in Building Healthy Relationships in Recovery

Addiction can take a toll on relationships, leading to broken trust, hurt feelings, and damaged connections. When someone enters recovery, it requires rebuilding these relationships and creating new ones with healthy boundaries.

Some common challenges in building healthy relationships in recovery include:

• Codependency – This is when one person’s behaviors or emotions are dependent on another person’s actions or feelings. In a codependent relationship, one person may sacrifice their own well-being for the sake of the other person.
• Resentment – Past hurts and traumas can lead to resentment and make it difficult to fully trust someone again.
• Lack of communication – Open and honest communication is crucial for any healthy relationship. However, during active addiction, communication can suffer, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.
• Different expectations – When one person is in recovery, they may have different expectations for the other person’s behavior. This can lead to frustration and disappointment if those expectations are not met.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for navigating these challenges, but there are some steps you can take to build and maintain healthy relationships in recovery.

Tips for Navigating Healthy Relationships in Recovery

Set Boundaries

Boundaries are often misunderstood. They’re not about controlling or limiting someone else’s behavior; they’re about communicating your needs and setting limits for what you will and will not accept in a relationship.

For example, if you’re in recovery, you may need to set boundaries around alcohol and drug use. This could mean asking loved ones not to have these substances around you or limiting time with friends who are still using.

If you’re supporting someone in recovery, you might need to set boundaries around enabling behaviors or taking on too much responsibility for the other person’s well-being.

Communicate Openly and Honestly

Open communication is crucial for any healthy relationship, but it can be especially challenging in recovery when emotions are high. It’s essential to communicate your feelings and needs calmly and respectfully. If you’re feeling triggered or overwhelmed, take a break and come back to the discussion when you’re feeling calmer.

Practice Empathy

Empathy is the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and understand their feelings. It’s a valuable skill for healthy relationships, as it allows you to see things from another perspective and respond with compassion and understanding.

If you’re supporting someone in recovery, try to empathize with their struggles and challenges. If you’re in recovery, practice empathy toward your loved ones who may not fully understand what you’re going through.

Build Trust Through Consistency

Trust is essential for any relationship, but it can be particularly challenging to rebuild after trust has been broken by addiction. Rebuilding trust takes time and consistency. Be honest, keep your promises, and follow through on commitments.

What Happens if Boundaries Are Crossed?

Even with the best efforts, conflict happens. Recovery is a journey, and it’s rarely linear—setbacks, mistakes, and misunderstandings can occur. If boundaries are crossed or someone is struggling in their recovery journey, it’s essential to address these issues with compassion and understanding.

For example, if you’re in recovery and have set a boundary that you don’t want to be around alcohol, but a friend unintentionally brings alcohol to a gathering, you have a decision to make. It can feel unfair to have to be the one to leave, but it’s important to prioritize your recovery and stick to your boundaries. You can explain your decision calmly and respectfully, using “I” statements (e.g., “I feel uncomfortable being around alcohol, so I need to leave”). This approach helps avoid placing blame on the other person while still honoring your own needs.

Having a follow-up conversation when emotions are calmer can also help address any miscommunications or misunderstandings and prevent future conflicts.

The same applies if you’re supporting someone in recovery and feel like your boundaries are being crossed. Reminding yourself of the importance of boundaries can help you maintain healthy relationships while still prioritizing your own well-being.

Talking with a professional is always a good idea if you’re struggling to navigate boundaries in relationships. Recovery Centers of America is here to help patients and their loved ones during all stages of the recovery journey.

Find Support for Healthy Relationships at Recovery Centers of America

Our programs and support services are designed to help patients rebuild connections with their loved ones while developing healthy boundaries and communication skills.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, call 833.926.5486 today to learn more about our treatment programs. We’re here to support you on your journey toward lasting recovery.