How To Support Someone Who Struggles With Addiction
Having a loved one or close friend struggling with addiction can feel terrifying. When you decide to help them, you commit to actively participating in their recovery. It's essential to educate yourself about addiction itself, as well as the recovery process.
One of the most impactful and important things you can do is encourage them to seek help for their addiction.
Here are some things to know when can support someone who struggles with addiction.
How to help someone with addiction
Trying to help someone with addiction can be a challenging and exhausting process. Recovery isn't something that happens overnight, and it never ends. Staying sober, if they choose to be abstinent, is a lifelong process.
Learn about addiction
It is important to learn as much as possible before approaching someone you're concerned about. Try to learn common risk factors and warning signs of addiction. Addiction, whether it is substances, alcohol, gambling, shopping, etc., will all manifest itself differently. To begin helping them, you should recognize the general signs of addiction and know what to look for.
Some signs of addiction may include:
Lying (often a sign of shame)
Being agitated when confronted
Suffering from loss in cognitive function
Significant and uncharacteristic mood swings
Appearing under the influence or intoxicated
Preoccupation with using or seeking the drug of choice
Having withdrawal symptoms after stopping
Encourage treatment and understand ambivalence
In many cases, someone with an addiction will only want to seek treatment once they've exhausted all other avenues. Any treatment will only work if a person is ready. Instead of forcing someone into treatment when they aren't ready, try to offer help by asking open-ended questions. With a compassionate, non-shaming approach, you might reflect on changes you've observed in their presentation or behavior.
Starting the recovery process is less cut and dry than many people believe. Many people fluctuate through stages of ambivalence before seeking help. Understanding natural ambivalence can help you remain a supportive partner in their recovery.
Set boundaries
Boundaries are crucial in all health relationships, and most people have yet to learn what health boundaries look like. Most of my clients who have struggled with addiction need support identifying their boundaries. Loved ones need help with their boundaries when in a relationship with a person in the throes of addiction. Identifying boundaries is a personal process and a step to ensure everyone feels safe and respected in the relationship. It might include telling them they cannot drink or use around certain family members. It needs to be clear that setting boundaries isn't a punishment. It's a way to help keep everyone safe. Setting boundaries can be difficult, but it's critical in the recovery process to help everyone have healthy parameters.
Be prepared for mistakes and relapses.
It's important to understand that recovery is rarely a linear journey. Relapses are a common part of the process, not a sign of failure. They provide an opportunity for further learning and growth. You can help your loved one navigate their recovery journey more effectively by approaching these setbacks with understanding and patience.
Understand and set expectations.
Recovery will vary from person to person. While many recovery programs offer structure and steps, the road to recovery is truly an individualized journey. Treatment should also be individualized. For some, in-patient rehab is a good first step towards stabilization; for others, an outpatient treatment program allows them to maintain their day-to-day lives while supporting necessary change. There is no one-size-fits-all. Try to set attainable and realistic expectations throughout the recovery process.
Take care of yourself.
Being there for someone with addiction can bring on emotional and physical distress for those closest to them. It's crucial to remember that your well-being is just as important. Taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity. By prioritizing self-care, you're better equipped to effectively support your loved one.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, remember that there is always hope. Therapy can be a powerful tool on the road to recovery, providing support, guidance, and a safe space to explore your feelings. Please reach out today to learn more about substance abuse counseling and how it can be a positive step towards a healthier, happier life.