Addiction is a sensitive subject. It’s a chaotic disease that affects the patient and others. It’s typical to feel many emotions when a loved one is addicted. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, but there is hope for recovery and methods you can help. First, talk to them.
When communicating with a loved one, be sure they can hear you. Follow these dos and don’ts to show your loved one you care about their future.
DO:
Clarify.
Straightforward and honest communication is best. The same goes for addicts. Be clear about what you want to say, and don’t be afraid to share your feelings—calmly. Saying how you feel can help.
Don’t Rush Them.
Don’t force a loved one to answer immediately. You can offer to help and explain how, but forcing them to choose their next action may be received with resistance. No one enjoys criticism.
Limit Yourself.
Relationships need boundaries. They safeguard your values, time, safety, etc. Maintaining good boundaries with an addict can be difficult. It’s an essential step to help them get well. Letting an addict overstep your limits ruins your connection.
Join Them.
Self-start. This shows your loved one you’re as committed to strengthening the connection as they are. It demonstrates leadership, strengthens ties, and may aid you. Depending on what you do, you may learn more about addiction and become a better advocate.
Talk When You’re Both Calm.
Some times are better than others for uncomfortable conversations. Waiting till both you and your loved one are sober can improve the dialogue. If things are going well, raise your concerns.
Learn.
Addictive illness. You’ll understand your loved one’s struggles better if you educate yourself. The more you understand addiction and how your loved one feels, the easier it is to show understanding and support. You won’t entirely grasp their experience, but you can demonstrate you care.
Don’t:
Don’t Bother.
Your loved one won’t change if you deny their addiction. Addicts often place themselves in unsafe circumstances, and drugs and alcohol have detrimental physical impacts. Addiction is a progressive, non-curable disease.
Enable.
Give someone the authority or means to do anything. Enabling involves giving someone the room or means to continue damaging behaviors.
You may be enabling your loved one’s addiction by:
- Not setting boundaries — It’s one thing to care about someone, but another to go too far. If someone’s requirements are supplied (money, housing, bail), they have little reason to change their behavior.
- Keeping silent and avoiding confrontation in the face of disturbing behaviors — You may find it difficult to voice your thoughts about your loved one’s predicament, especially when doing so has bad consequences.
Threaten With Ultimatums.
If someone isn’t ready to change, the last demand will likely be rejected. Threats and expectations are similar but different. It can be hard not to make forceful remarks to change a loved one, but an ultimatum can backfire.
When Drunk Or Emotional, Discuss Issues.
When someone is drunk or upset, nothing useful can be said. Emotional overload prevents clear thinking. Waiting to discuss major topics can be uncomfortable, but it’s vital.
Blame Them Or Yourself.
People look for someone to blame in stressful situations. Who better to blame than addicts? Blaming a loved one is easy. They’re indulging in unhealthy activities.
Conversation Next
You might feel more prepared and confident now that you know how to talk to a loved one about addiction recovery centers. Always expect difficulty and anxiety. It’s alright to be anxious, and your loved one should know. It’s thoughtful.