The Importance of Accountability in Sobriety

The argument can be made that each and every person who is doing well in life has, at some point, had to lean on someone for support. We all need human connection, a voice that lifts us out of our darkest times, and an anchor who holds us down in tempestuous storms.

We’re looking at the sometimes overlooked yet integral aspect of accountability in recovery, and how it provides a wellspring of hope for those striving to remain sober. We highlight 5 practical steps to bring accountability into your recovery journey, in the hope of your brighter, sober tomorrow.

What exactly is meant by “accountability in sobriety”?

The term “accountability” is held in incredibly high esteem in addiction recovery. Accountability is a step above simply admitting that you have an addiction. It’s an indicator that you’re ready for positive change, and you’re willing to be part of a system where your actions, progress and even your setbacks are visible, both to yourself and to those who support you.

When a person in recovery truly holds themselves accountable, they tell the world that they’re willing to be honest about their struggles and open about the choices they make each day. Because we all struggle, and we all make mistakes.

A healthy system of accountability during your sobriety can become a bedrock for sustained progress. By allowing others into your circle as you work towards a sober future, you can set up a framework of encouragement, and recovery feels more like a shared effort than a lonely, uphill battle.

In what ways does accountability strengthen addiction recovery?

The recovery process is fraught with challenges and pitfalls. Urges and cravings to return to a substance can feel like they’re at your throat, lulling you into an escape, but you know it’s only temporary.

You don’t need to strive for perfection in recovery, but you do need to be honest and establish trust with those who are helping you. Accountability can become a system that reminds you, you aren’t walking alone. Here are some of the ways accountability can make the burden you carry a little lighter:

• Giving an “outside perspective” on your blind spots: Addiction often clouds judgement. An accountability partner or group will help you notice patterns you may miss, like subtle shifts in mood and risky behaviours that creep back in during recovery. Sometimes, just hearing the voice of someone who cares can remind you that we are all human, and we all have blind spots in our behaviours.
• Turning consistency into a shield for relapse prevention: Accountability is one of the best ways you can establish a small but solid routine. Being accountable means you show up when you really need to, consistently, ready to share how you’re feeling. Small, incremental routines start to function as layers of defence to reinforce relapse prevention.
• Strength in numbers: peer and group accountability: Research illustrates how group support plays a pivotal role in long-term recovery. Having people around you who understand your struggle first-hand means you’re surrounded by encouragement, which counters isolation. Their progress can inspire you, with yours inspiring them in return.
• Routines and follow-ups that keep your progress on track: Recovery cannot happen in a vacuum. Accountability means scheduling follow-ups with your counsellors and recovery groups. These touchpoints can highlight progress you might not see and help you quickly address setbacks.

Practical ways to bring accountability into sobriety

Accountability is not something that activates on and off like a light switch. It’s a skill that needs to be developed and strengthened, so that it does not fade when times get hard.

Here are steps you can take to establish accountability as a core tenet of your recovery journey:

Where can I turn for support with an addiction?

If you’re finding it hard to stay accountable on your own, you don’t have to keep struggling in silence. Addiction can be an isolating experience, but recovery grows stronger when it’s shared with others. Support is available in many forms, from trusted loved ones and peer support groups to professional treatment programmes.

Reach out to us today. The sooner you take that first step, the sooner you can begin rebuilding the sober future you deserve.