Social media has been a useful tool for people going through addiction recovery over the years, with many people becoming influencers and inspirations as a result of sharing their stories.
It has long been a good way to seek drug or alcohol advice from professionals on the platforms and communities that are going through various challenges in their life and have come out the other end.
Twitter, or X as we should now call it, as well as Facebook Groups have long been at the heart of that, while Instagram accounts have also become prominent. But what about TikTok? Can that be another aid for addiction recovery?
Well, turns out it already is, so if you’re struggling with addiction or need help in recovery, here’s why the newer social media platform really can be a really great platform for help…
Community and Connection
Of course, just as with other social media platforms, TikTok provides a space for individuals in drug addiction recovery to connect with a supportive community. Users often share their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs through short video clips.
It’s those shared experiences that can really help build a communal atmosphere, particularly given the more personal nature of TikTok with it being a video first platform.
Educational Content and Awareness
Similarly, due to the nature of the media created, educational content and awareness can be much more powerful through TikTok. Creators can provide information on resources, debunk myths, as well as being much more personal in their own journeys, sharing day-to-day footage that’s real and people can relate with.
Daily Motivation and Positive Affirmations
Whether you’ve got a TikTok account or not, it’s fair to say you’ll have seen the many trends that have come off the back of it, and how positive they are generally speaking. The short-form nature of TikTok videos really do lend themselves to motivation and positive affirmations, which can play a huge part in encouraging people each and every day. They’re only small things, but can make a huge difference, whether that be in people’s time of need or to kick start their day with a smile.
Creative Expression and Art Therapy
Interestingly, it can also form part of therapy. The rise of art therapy has been huge in recent years at rehabilitation centres, and creating visuals fits into that bracket whether it be creating a TikTok video on dancing, exploring art of expressing yourself in absolutely any way, shape or form. It can be a release, provide a medium for self discovery and again make you part of a community where sharing is caring.
Peer Support and Accountability
Finally, TikTok provides a platform, just as other social channels had previously, for people to hold themselves accountable by publishing their day to day progress. Being part of that support network allows you to share milestones, coping strategies and help develop a real sense of responsibility and commitment to the cause of recovery.
