Often those reentering society are in recovery and a percentage of the people we support have been incarcerated. That is why I found it important to discuss the above. We need to know strategies that can be implemented so we can keep going forward in our freedom and recovery. Without a blueprint or map, it can be difficult to find one’s way and maintain it.
First we should discuss the challenges one faces when re-entering society. From stigma and being stereotyped off of past choices. Job hunting obstacles and even difficulty finding housing. I myself know first hand how triggering that could be, especially if one is in recovery and trying to maintain sobriety. These situations pose oppurtunity for stress to come about today the least.
Community support is key when it comes to people fighting to take back control of their life. A good support system or network can help propel you reintegrate back easier. The wrong support system can be a stumbling block. Support groups are great spaces where you can find your peers who are fighting forward as well. Make sure your support group is actually providing support!
Another thing that is key is building healthy relationships. It takes strategy and times to rebuild relationships that may have been impacted by someone being in addiction. Learning to effectively communicate with loved ones helps the overall process of coming together in order to keep moving forward. Developing life skills that are needed as well in order to keep anxiety down that could be triggering.
Next we definitely need to discuss mental health and self care when it comes to being in recovery. A persons mental health has a direct impact on being able to push past cravings, etc. That is why self care is key. Positive self talk, celebrating goals accomplished and more. You have to build yourself up for when the tough moments come. A vision for the future is so powerful so you can have something to build towards.
Creating a peer support network though we mentioned a little bit earlier can be more specific depending on your realization of what you need to have to move forward. Reach out to certified peer support specialist, forensic peers and veteran liaisons if you can as they will at times be able to support you from a more personal lense because they’ve gone through similar situations.
Lastly, advocate for yourself and get involved in the community. Live life with purpose while in recovery or re-entering society. The landscape of resources and needs change and being able to advocate for yourself is so powerful. Community involvement gives a person value and serves as motivation to stay on the right track. These are all suggestions as you need to find what works best for you, but please know that you can re-enter back into society, be in recovery and be successful.
