Joanna Painton Director of Alumni Services

I remember how scared I was when I first got clean and sober. I could not imagine my life without a drink or a drug to get through the day. I thought that drinking and drugging was fun when it had not been fun for years.

Going to 12-step meetings as part of my treatment plan gave me a chance to see other people actually laughing and having fun in recovery. I was introduced to the concept of living in a 24-hour-a-day plan and staying present--something I had never been able to do.

After I left treatment, I learned I could do things without being under the influence. I went to all kinds of events and found I enjoyed some things and not others. I learned that having fun in recovery is possible and that I truly had a choice. 12-step fellowship taught me how to live life, make healthy decisions and really enjoy who I am.

Some suggestions for fun in recovery:

The meeting after the meeting. This is a great way to get to know other group members, share a laugh or two and increase your support network.

12-step activities. Dances, campouts, picnics, karaoke, potlucks, and conventions are just a few activities that may be organized by a local 12-step group.

Service work. Getting involved in a home group can get you right in the middle of your recovery program.

Willingness and open-mindedness. The 12-step program teaches us to be willing to try new things and open to the possibility we might like it.

More About Living in Recovery

There’s no better way to learn to have fun in recovery than to celebrate it with the rest of the community. For Recovery Month, we’re inviting the community to join us and folks from The Refuge in Jacksonville Beach. We'll have lots of food, music and fun for the kids, too. Let’s see the benefits of recovery and celebrate the fullness of life together.

Our special treat will be testimony from Jennifer Gimenez, of VH1’s “Celebrity Rehab” and Sober House.” Join us at Stepping Stone on Saturday, September 14, 3-6:30 p.m. See you there!

For more information, contact jpainton@steppingstonecfr.com or call 800-833-9057.