Addiction is a scary thing for the addicted and their loved ones. The person who has an addiction problem (no matter the type) will most likely not admit that he has one. But that is not a bad thing. The first step to recovery is almost always denial. However, if you know someone going through this problem, you can help them in different ways. It will not be an easy process, so you must have the strength. It will require your support because without it overcoming the addition will not be possible. Below are five things you can do to help a person who has an addiction.
1.Communicate
First of all, you can talk to your loved one. You can tell them how you feel about the whole situation and how it is affecting you. You can also tell them if you think that their addiction has caused problems in your relationship. It is also important to note that you need to be compassionate while having this conversation. You should also listen and understand their feelings. You should never criticize, become frustrated, or shame them as that may further increase addiction along with pushing you away. As this is a sensitive topic, you need to show that you are willing to try and help them so that they feel safe with you.
2.Find Treatment Options
Once you have communicated the problem and your loved one is willing to change, you should discuss the available treatment options. Many options are available, such as rehabilitation centers. You can find some around your area. For example, if you live in Florida, you can check out The Palm Beach Institute for addiction treatment. Other options include medication, support groups, and different types of therapy. Support groups usually aim to share the pain with other addicted people. They have various approaches to treat the addiction, such as complete abstinence or moderation. However, therapy helps with understanding how your thoughts and feelings affect your behaviors. It helps in communication and focuses on why a person thinks they need to use it and how they would be better off without it.
3.Be Supportive
Recovering from an addiction is a long and tiresome process, which is why you must always give your loved one support. Offering treatment plans is one way, but you must also respect their space. If they want to look out for options on their own, you should allow them. Moreover, if they decide to keep their addiction a secret, respect their privacy. Do not tell people they do not want to inform, even if you think it will be helpful. It is their life, and they have the right to make any decision they want. If you negate their choices, it will only weaken your trust and relationship with them. Another way you can support them is by going with them to therapies/support groups. However, be mindful of their privacy. If they decide they do not want to involve you in something, try not to take it personally. Allowing them space to breathe, along with being supportive, will surely strengthen your relationship and help them recover well.
4.Set Boundaries
Every addiction comes with consequences. It is why it is necessary to set up boundaries with the addict. You may enable them to continue their addiction without realizing it, for example, allowing them to fall off the wagon or providing for them financially. If you continue doing this, even if it is out of love and support, it will not help the recovery. It may be difficult at first, but it will protect them from consequences in the long term and help them regain motivation to change. You must hold them accountable and decide the boundaries of right and wrong behavior. The kind of boundaries you want to put in place depends on you. However, you must realize why these boundaries are necessary and reach a mutual understanding. It is also essential that you stick by these no matter how much your limits get tested. If you remember the reason behind your behavior, you will be good to go.
5.Stay Patient
The process of recovery and fallbacks require a lot of effort and patience. You must stay calm while providing support and remember that change does not happen overnight. It will be a long and challenging process. You cannot get flustered if things are not going according to plan or if progress is longer than expected. While it is frustrating, you must remember that your behavior affects your loved ones as well. If you show them you are always trying your best, they will try as well. If you provide support rather than agony, the more they will confide in you and feel safe with you. Although at times, they may blame you or get aggressive. However, you should stay calm, listen to them, and let it go. In no circumstances should you ever threaten, lecture, or punish them. It will most likely make them feel guilty and would enable them to use it again.
Final Thoughts
It can be tough to see your loved one going through something horrific. It is why for you to continue assisting, you should support yourself too. You can ensure you do not keep your life on hold and maintain a balance. If you always stay stressed, it will not help you or your loved one in their recovery. Reach out to your friends and family and talk to them about how you are feeling. You should not cut off your other relationship because of one difficult, time-consuming situation. It is essential to make yourself a priority at times too. You can also do things that you enjoy and help to manage your stress, such as exercising. Seeing your loved one go through an addiction and recovery process is stressful. However, when it takes a toll on you, remind yourself why you are doing it in the first place. You want to help them with their addiction and not see them suffer. It is why doing all these things we have listed above will surely help them.