Having a loved one with an addiction can be a very difficult situation. No matter what your relationship to this person is, you love and care for them and want them to get better. Addiction is a disease that impacts not just that person, but the people around them as well. If you care about the health of your loved one and want to help them with their addiction, here are some tips to get you started in the best possible way.
Have Compassion
Addiction is a disease and it is important to remember that. Even if you are angry or frustrated, it is important to have compassion for your loved one as they go through this. The more support they have, the better their chances of beating their addiction are. Early recovery is the most vulnerable point in the whole recovery process and the chances of relapsing are high. The more support a person has in this time, the better their chances of staying sober.
Set Boundaries
Compassion does not mean enabling your loved one’s addiction. It is also important, for your health and theirs, that you set boundaries. This doesn’t necessarily mean cutting them off. It means you won’t do things to contribute to their addiction or help them avoid the consequences of their actions.
Sometimes, this also means doing something dramatic to protect yourself. According to the Journal of Family Issues, about 10% of divorces are a result of substance abuse. While it can hurt, sometimes this is the best option.
Address Their Problem
Addressing your loved one’s addiction head-on can be an intimidating task. And sometimes they will refuse to listen to you. But it is important that you tell them exactly how you’re feeling. Keep your compassion, but be honest. If their behavior is harming you, they need to know. Either way, let them know you love them and worry for them. There’s no guarantee they’ll listen or that they won’t get defensive, but it is important that you try.
Research Treatment Options Ahead of Time
There are many different treatment options for substance abuse and addiction. Take some time to research options on your own. Consider things like 12 step programs, rehabilitation clinics, and medical options. In many situations, addiction is co-occurring with other psychiatric disorders. 53% of drug users and 37% of alcoholics have other mental health issues alongside their addictions. 55% do not receive any treatment. If you can find resources that will address both the addiction and the other problems, this can go a long way toward keeping your loved one sober once they decide to get help.
Don’t Try to Force Anything
Your loved one won’t get treatment until they are ready to do so. Unfortunately, this means that you can’t force them to do it. Even if they are forced to go to rehab, they’re likely to start using again if they don’t go willingly. If you try to get your loved one to get treatment and they refuse, stay compassionate and firm in your boundaries. Let them know that you love them and are here to support them when they do decide to get help. Knowing you’re there will make it easier once they are ready.
If they pull away and decide never to get treatment, remember that this isn’t your fault and you can’t fix things on your own. Don’t feel guilty about anything that happens.
Addiction is extremely difficult to deal with. If your loved one is struggling and you want to help them, provide support and maintain your boundaries. This is the best way to show that you love them while also taking care of yourself. Show compassion, provide help, and let them know that you are there for them when they’re ready to take that first step toward health.
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