Types of Boundaries
This type of boundary involves your personal space and body.
Physical boundaries
Saying “no” when something threatens your sobriety is an example of this.
Healthy boundary
This type of statement focuses on your feelings instead of blaming others.
I-statements
A friend invites you to drink and you say no and leave. What is this?
Setting a healthy boundary
This person helps guide your recovery and can support your boundaries.
Sponsor
This boundary involves your feelings and emotional limits.
Emotional boundaries
Letting others pressure you into uncomfortable situations is this type of boundary.
Weak or unhealthy boundary
This communication style is clear, direct, and respectful.
Assertive communication
You agree to go somewhere you feel uncomfortable to avoid conflict.
Weak boundary / people-pleasing
Avoiding people, places, and things connected to use is an example of this.
Setting boundaries in recovery
This type of boundary involves your money and possession
Financial/material boundaries
Cutting everyone off and refusing support is an example of this.
Rigid boundary
This style avoids conflict but often leads to resentment.
Passive communication
You stop answering everyone’s calls and isolate completely.
Rigid boundary
This feeling often comes up when first setting boundaries but doesn’t mean you’re wrong.
Guilt
This boundary relates to how you spend your time and energy.
Time boundaries
Clearly expressing your needs while respecting others is this.
Healthy boundary
This style involves blaming or attacking others.
Aggressive communication
You tell someone, “I need space right now to focus on my recovery.”
Assertive boundary
Boundaries help protect this in recovery.
Sobriety
This type of boundary involves your values, beliefs, and recovery priorities.
Internal or personal boundaries
Ignoring your own needs to please others is called this.
People-pleasing / lack of boundaries
Repeating your boundary calmly without changing it is called this.
Broken record technique
You continue spending time with people who use despite knowing it triggers you.
Boundary violation / lack of boundaries
This recovery principle involves putting your recovery before others’ expectations.
Prioritizing recovery / self-care