People struggling with addiction require a lot of support, especially from their families and friends. Recovery is a long and challenging process. Without support, addicts may not win the battle. Here are seven tips to help someone you care about overcome addiction.
- Educate Yourself
You must understand the process of addiction and the process of treating it. Learn how it impacts their loved ones. Being knowledgeable about addiction will help you understand the addict and their environment as well.
One of the most informative sources is SAMHSA.gov
- Remember That The Addict Is Someone You Care About
A person who is already an addict can be irrational and make you feel like you are not wanted in his/her life. Addicts may say and do things they never intended.
Avoid taking things personally with them. Don’t blame and shame them but encourage the addict to think positively. They need compassion. More resources can be found at: Phoenix rehab center.
- Encourage Healthy Habits
Physical and mental health can decline in addicts, and they can be unhygienic. Mental health problems like anxiety and depressions can also be caused by addiction.
You may consider ibogaine treatment therapy to treat addiction. Encourage an addict to eat healthy and exercise.
- Be Honest with Them
Be honest about what you feel, what you expect from them, and your boundaries. The worst thing you can ever do is sheltering them from the consequences of their drug abuse or alcoholism.
Encourage an addict to take responsibility and do not be overbearing. They should play an active role in continuing to manage their finances and other personal or professional duties.
- Get Counseling
It’s not only the addict that should undergo counseling. Remember that addiction is affecting you indirectly, and you should also consider counseling. The more you will be able to manage the situation personally, the better you will be able to help your loved one overcome their addiction.
There are several ways of finding counselors. An Employee Assistance Program may be available in your company. Talk to someone you can trust and find available resources in your area.
- Remain Positive
Addiction is treatable and addicts might have to undergo treatment for a long time until they are fully recovered. But many are successful. When you lose hope, you might negatively impact the addict’s recovery. So, always keep faith and move forward as if you will succeed.
- Remain Realistic
There will be roadblocks. Anticipate them as part of the journey.
Look forward to rehabilitation and recovery as you take the right steps. Have a balanced perspective to stay encouraged and positive through the challenges you are going to face.