Beating addiction by yourself can be a nearly impossible task. Support groups and counseling have been created throughout the years to support those who are struggling with addiction because the difficulties of fighting an addiction on your own can be debilitating. The support and encouragement that comes from a support group can make the difference and help lead you to sobriety.

In some cases, such as a support group or counseling, reliance can be a good thing. It is important to have confidence in yourself and be strong when by yourself, but accountability with others can be a powerful tool for success. Being somewhat reliant on someone who can keep you accountable can be a major step towards sobriety. However, it’s easy to take a step backwards depending on who you are reliant on.

It is important to note that it can be a dangerous game to be reliant on another addict who is struggling with the same addiction. Depending on one another can be effective, but it can backfire if one person breaks the chain of sobriety. This may lead to the other person losing confidence and both become addicts again. Two recovering addicts that are attempting to help one another can easily backfire and they can become enablers for one another. Instead of holding one another accountable they both enable the other to use or abuse and remain addicts.

It is important to have a sense of independence when fighting an addiction in order to maintain stability and balance, but seeking help is an important step as well because accountability and direction can be a huge help in fighting addiction. The right reliance sets you in the right direction towards recovery. Join a support group, schedule counseling sessions, but don’t rely on another addict to become sober, for the sake of yourself and your friend.