The Early Sobriety Group at Brown
The Early Sobriety Group (ESOB) is a weekly, one-hour meeting for Brown students in recovery from chemical dependency. The group provides a safe, confidential space for students to discuss matters related to recovery in general and to life at Brown in particular. The group's ultimate objective is to help students develop the social support necessary for sustained recovery so that they may continue their studies at and ultimately graduate from Brown.
ESOB includes students enrolled at Brown who have accepted a diagnosis of chemical dependency and are in recovery. There is no requirement that members be affiliated with any other recovery or support group. A student wishing to join the Early Sobriety Group meets with Dean McSharry, who will determine whether or not the student meets the criteria for group membership and is able to conform to the group format and procedures.
Membership Criteria
Group members must make a commitment to abstain from all mind-altering substances. This applies to all illicit drugs, alcohol, and the abuse of prescription drugs. Whether or not a student has identified that he or she has a problem with a particular substance is irrelevant; continuing abstinence from drugs and alcohol is the goal of group members.
Relapse is not a requirement for recovery, but it is part of the process for some people. Students who use drugs or alcohol while members of the group are expected to be honest with the group about their use. If Dean McSharry or the group determines that an individual is not committed to working a program of recovery, they may ask the student to stop attending ESOB.
New Members
Students newly admitted to the group are expected to attend a minimum of four consecutive meetings before determining whether or not the group is right for them. This is to ensure continuity of membership in the group and to prevent unnecessary disruption to the group. New members may join the group at any time of year.