You can do many things to help your loved ones who suffer from substance abuse. However, one of the most important things you can do for your loved one is to encourage them to seek professional help as soon as possible. Although we can educate ourselves on our loved one’s struggles, we should always suggest they seek professional help from addiction specialists, therapists, or counselors. Professionals can provide the necessary guidance, support, and treatment options tailored to their specific needs.
Another big thing you can do for your loved one is not enabling their addictive behaviors. Be careful to commit acts that unintentionally support their harmful behavior. These acts include providing them with money, covering up their actions, or making excuses for them. Instead, encourage them to take responsibility for their actions and seek help. Sometimes, all an addict needs is accountability from someone they care about.
Refraining from enabling their addictive behaviors also comes with setting clear boundaries. Always remember to focus on behavior patterns rather than the person. You should be firm but compassionate when communicating your boundaries. Use “I” statements to express how their behavior affects you and what you need from them to feel safe and reassured of their progress. Also, clearly define the consequences they’ll face for crossing the line. This will help build accountability during their journey.
If you want to help your loved one in their fight against substance abuse, make sure they prioritize self-care activities that promote their physical and emotional health. This may include exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and engaging in activities they enjoy. In one of our earlier blogs, we discussed the benefits of exercise and proper nutrition for recovering addicts. You can’t overstate the importance of self-care and its stabilizing effects on people’s journeys to sobriety.
We all face internal struggles, and addicts are no different. Sometimes all they need is a listening ear. Becoming a good, active listener will go a long way with anyone battling addiction. Provide a safe and non-judgmental space for the person to share their thoughts and feelings. Always show genuine interest, empathy, and understanding whenever they share with you. Let them know that their voice is heard and that you’re there to support them.
It pays to have as many listening ears as possible. So, you should never feel guilty about suggesting your loved one join a support group. Some people may view them as trite, but these groups provide a valuable sense of community and understanding. It’s liberating to know that you’re not alone in your struggle, and we urge all recovering addicts to be in spaces where they can share experiences with people just like them.
Addicts are people at the end of the day, and managing them comes with its complexities – as it does with any other person. At Welwynn Outpatient Center, we have poured our expertise and resources into creating the most conducive environment for people to win their battle against substance abuse. If you or a loved one needs our help, click here now.
