When it comes to maintaining mental health and achieving long-term sobriety, the concept of chosen family—the family we create for ourselves—holds profound significance. While families of origin can provide love and support, they can also be sources of trauma, dysfunction, or unmet needs. For individuals navigating recovery, finding a sense of belonging within a chosen community is not just comforting; it’s life-changing.
Addiction and Attachment: The Role of Connection
Addiction isn’t just about substances—it’s about unmet needs and disconnection. Attachment theory suggests that addiction often stems from disrupted or insecure attachments in childhood. These experiences can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-worth, and a tendency to seek solace in substances or destructive behaviors.
Dr. Gabor Maté, a leading expert in addiction, explains, “The opposite of addiction is not sobriety; it is connection.” This highlights the essential role of relationships in the recovery process. Studies confirm this: individuals who engage meaningfully with a supportive community are up to 50% more likely to maintain sobriety than those who remain isolated. In contrast, isolation has been shown to significantly increase the risk of relapse, with loneliness being a key predictor of poor mental health outcomes.
The Healing Power of Community
A strong, supportive community offers accountability, empathy, and a sense of purpose. For many in recovery, finding a community that truly understands and accepts them can fill the gaps left by a dysfunctional family of origin.
Enter the Chosen Family
A chosen family is composed of individuals who provide unconditional love, support, and understanding, often stepping in where family of origin may have fallen short. For LGBTQIA+ individuals, people in recovery, or those healing from trauma, chosen families can meet emotional and relational needs that might never have been acknowledged by biological relatives.
Unlike traditional family systems, which may be steeped in obligation or outdated dynamics, chosen families are built on mutual respect, shared values, and genuine connection. They foster environments where individuals can grow, heal, and thrive, free from the fear of judgment or rejection.
The Red Door Life Approach
At Red Door Life, we understand the importance of connection in recovery. Connection is a part of our culture. Our programs are rooted in the belief that everyone deserves to belong to a loving, supportive community.
One way we cultivate this sense of belonging is through our open to all Sunday Community Dinners. These gatherings are more than just meals—they’re opportunities to connect, share stories, and build meaningful relationships with others on the same path. For many of our clients, these dinners become the cornerstone of their chosen family.
If you’re actively struggling with mental health or substance use issues, you don’t have to do it alone. At Red Door Life, we offer a safe space where you can find your footing, discover your chosen family, and start building a life of purpose and connection.
A Call to Action
Recovery is not a solitary journey. If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out to us today. Whether it’s finding solace in a shared meal at our Sunday dinners or beginning your journey to recovery with professional support, we’re here to help you find the connection, healing, and chosen family you deserve.
Because everyone deserves to feel like they belong.
For more information about our programs or to take the first step toward recovery, contact Red Door Life today.
JOIN US FOR OUR COMMUNITY HOLIDAY DINNER
WHEN: Christmas Day 1-4 PM
Parking on Mulholland Drive & Nicada Drive ADA Parking Available, Contact Us
FREE, ALL ARE WELCOME!
Comments