The journey of overcoming an addiction is no easy one, and if you’re a loved one trying to help someone through the process, it can be overwhelming. You may not exactly know where to get started or how to offer advice without hurting anothers feelings.
Below we are going to take a look at six tips to follow when you are helping a loved one who is struggling with addiction.
Want to learn more? Then keep on reading.
Educate Yourself.
The first thing you want to do when it comes to helping your loved one is to educate yourself on addiction. Alcoholism and substance abuse can begin due to a variety of reasons, and until you understand everything that’s involved, you’re not going to be able to offer the proper support. Do your research, know the signs and take note of the effects. It’s important.
Listen And Provide Support.
After you’ve educated yourself, it’s then time to provide support. While you might be tempted to rush in and give your own opinion on the situation, you need to remember to listen first. Yes, mention your concerns but also let them know that you are there for them and will stand by them through the entire recovery journey.
Discuss Treatment Options.
Once you’ve listened to one another and shared your feelings, you can then encourage your loved one to get help. There are a variety of rehab centers that can provide excellent support, such as Landmark Recovery Oklahoma City.
Remember, you should be prepared to hear excuses. They may try and insist that they don’t need treatment. Be persistent but not so much that you damage your relationship.
Avoid Violating Their Privacy.
Another one of your first instincts might be to start monitoring every aspect of your loved ones’ life. But before you go searching bedrooms and reading through phone messages, you need to think again. How would you like it if someone came and violated your privacy? Give them space, and take things one step at a time. You don’t want to lose their trust.
Understand It’s Going To Be A Long Process.
In order to help your loved one, you need to remember that recovering from an addiction and staying sober is a long process. You have to be patient when offering support and be aware that relapses may happen along the way. It might be challenging to grasp at first, but it will all be worth it in the end.
Check In On Your Own Mental Health.
Finally, the last tip to remember is to make sure that you check in on your own mental health as well. Having a loved one with an addiction is stressful and can take a toll on your well-being. Check out some strategies to cope with stress and consider speaking to a support group if need be. Once you are feeling your best, you’ll be able to support those around you.
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