Recovery guide

How to Get a Sponsor

A sponsor is a supportive friend who helps you stay on track. Here are 12 simple steps to find someone who will walk beside you in recovery.

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  • 12 simple steps
  • Track your progress
  • You’re not alone
Illustration of a sponsor walking beside a newcomer Two people walk together along a glowing path toward a rising sun, the taller sponsor with an arm around the newcomer’s shoulders and a heart floating above them, representing support, fellowship and hope on the road to recovery.
Why a sponsor

Finding a Friend for Your Recovery

Starting your journey to recovery is a big step, and having a sponsor can make a world of difference. A sponsor is like a supportive friend who helps you stay on track. This article will guide you through the simple steps to find a sponsor who will be there for you in your recovery journey.

A sponsor is…

  • A supportive friendSomeone who helps you stay on track.
  • Someone who understandsOften a person who had similar problems like you.
  • A guide, not a therapistThey’ll support you in finding professional help if you need it.
Step by step

12 Simple Steps to Find a Sponsor

Take them one at a time. Tick each step as you complete it to keep track of your progress.

  1. Phase 1 · Steps 1–4Find your personGo to meetings, listen, and look for someone you relate to.

    1. Join Support Meetings Regularly

      Go to meetings where people talk about their own recovery. This is where you’ll find someone who can be your sponsor.

    2. Watch and Talk

      Pay attention to the people who talk in the meetings. Some might have stories that you relate to. After the meeting, try to talk to them.

    3. Ask Nicely

      When you find someone you like, ask them kindly if they can be your sponsor. It’s like asking a friend for help.

    4. Find Someone Like You

      Look for a person who had similar problems like you. They will understand you better.

  2. Phase 2 · Steps 5–7Agree togetherTalk honestly and agree on how you’ll work together.

    1. Talk Clearly

      Have an honest talk with your potential sponsor. Ask them how often you’ll meet and what they expect from you.

    2. Both Agree

      Both of you should agree on how you’ll work together. Talk about when you’ll meet and what you want to achieve.

    3. Trust Your Feelings

      Choose someone you feel comfortable with. It’s like picking a friend you trust.

  3. Phase 3 · Steps 8–12Grow togetherBe honest, stay in touch and share your progress.

    1. Be Honest

      Tell your sponsor about your problems and feelings. It’s okay to share. They want to help.

    2. Respect Their Time

      Remember, your sponsor is helping you because they want to. Be grateful and respect their time.

    3. Get Help When You Need It

      A sponsor is like a guide, not a therapist. If you need professional help, they’ll support you in finding it.

    4. Keep Talking

      Stay in touch with your sponsor.

    5. Share Your Progress

      Always share your progress to your sponsor and talk about any problems.

Illustration of two friends in recovery sitting together Two people sit side by side on a park bench under a leafy tree, one with an arm around the other, watching a warm sunset together, a picture of friendship, community and facing recovery together.
You’re not alone

Face the challenges of recovery together

Getting a sponsor is like making a new friend who helps you in your recovery journey. By going to meetings, talking to people, and asking for help, you can find a sponsor who will be there for you. Remember, you’re not alone. With your sponsor by your side, you can face the challenges of recovery together.

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Step 1 starts here

Your sponsor is waiting at a meeting

The first step to finding a sponsor is going to meetings. Join one in person near you or online on Zoom.

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