With an estimated 23 million people in the US struggling with drug addiction, it’s common to have a loved one affected by it. If you’re helping someone dealing with these troubles, you may be at risk of making mistakes that make the problem worse.
Everyone tells us what to do, but rarely what not to do.
So, let’s discuss the things not to do when helping someone with drug addiction problems.
Just a friendly reminder, you can always contact us online if you have any questions about drug rehab in Fayetteville, NC. You don’t have to roam the internet, searching for “drug addiction treatment near me,” we’re here to help!
With that said, let’s have a look at things to avoid when you’re trying to help a loved one suffering from addiction troubles.
Things To Avoid During Helping Your Loved One!
Making progress toward recovery from drug addiction can be an emotional, difficult journey for everyone involved, including the person suffering from addiction, their loved ones, and even medical professionals and rehab therapists.
Unfortunately, many of the things people say and do when trying to help a loved one recover from addiction can end up pushing them further away from recovery or even back into active addiction.
Here are some very normal mistakes people make when helping someone struggling with addiction troubles, along with suggestions on how to better approach these situations so you can be more helpful instead of hurtful to your loved one.
#1) No Matter How Bad It Gets, Keep Trying To Help
No matter what, don’t give up on your family member. When you stop trying to help them, they will be more likely to relapse. If things get really bad and you’re not sure how to help them any longer, it’s time to seek professional help. And even if the person refuses treatment, be there for them as best you can. Lastly, try not to do anything that would make their situation worse, even if you think it would be good in the short term.
#2) Not Everyone Who Struggles With Addiction Is Ready For Recovery
It’s important to know that not everyone who struggles with addiction is ready for recovery. This is especially true if they don’t have the necessary support system and treatment available to them. Recovery isn’t something you can force on someone. They have to want it for themselves. If your loved one isn’t ready, remember that this doesn’t mean you’re failing in some way: You just need to let them go at their own pace.
Be there for them when they are ready but don’t take any control away from them. Don’t try to convince them or bribe them into giving up drugs or alcohol because that might backfire in a big way. Offer your support but otherwise, leave the decision-making up to the person struggling with addiction so that they feel empowered rather than pressured.
#3) Recovery Takes Time And Effort
Recovery is a process that can take effort and time to get through. You may not be able to help your loved one heal on their own, but you can provide them with the necessary support.
Don’t make judgments – addiction can affect your loved one from all walks of life, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds; so it’s critical to not judge your loved one for struggling with an addiction.
Also, if your loved one is going through recovery from addiction it’s very important not to expect a lot from them too soon.
#4) Understand The Difference Between Making Excuses And Asking For Support
Sometimes the simplest way to help someone is by saying that you’re sorry. You don’t need to try and fix their problems or tell them what they should do. What people struggling with addiction usually want is someone who will listen and offer emotional support.
If you find that you’re making excuses for your friend’s behavior, or blaming yourself for not being able to help them, it might be time to ask for some professional support.
Remember that you are trying to change an addiction-prone pattern in your life; this takes a lot of patience and self-care. It can also assist to reach out to other friends or family members who have been in similar situations.
#5) Recovery From Addiction Isn’t Just About Stopping Using Drugs. It’s More About Getting Your Life Back On Track
Drug abuse causes changes in the brain that can lead to compulsive behaviors, such as cravings and relapse after an attempt to quit. Recovery from addiction isn’t just about stopping using drugs. It’s totally about getting your life back on track. That’s why any good recovery program includes therapy and other treatments to address underlying issues like depression or trauma.
The person who cares for the addict should get professional help too: families of addicts often experience heavy stress, which can lead to problems like anxiety or depression
#6) Try Giving Advice Only When Asked And Let Your Loved One Come Up With Their Solutions
It’s difficult to see your loved one battle with drug addiction. You want to assist, but you’re not sure what to do. It’s critical to understand that not every option will suit everyone. If you have suggestions, offer them in small doses and let your friend or family member come up with their solutions.
It is a better idea to discuss your feelings without blaming anyone.
Saying that you’re feeling really sad right now is more effective than saying that the other person is making you feel sad.
Whether you are an addict yourself or not, addiction can be difficult to understand. Letting someone know they are not alone may just be the encouragement they need to take another step towards getting sober.
#7) The Best Way To Show The Love Is By Being There, Rather Than Saying It
It’s easy to say “I love you,” but what about when you’re trying to show support for someone going through addiction problems? It can be tough to know how best to help, which is why we’re here to give you some tips.
There are many ways you can support someone who is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, and your loved ones must know they can rely on you during this challenging time. What should you avoid doing? Don’t over-explain: If someone close to you has an addiction problem, don’t bombard them with questions.
The more information they feel like they have to share, the more likely they are to open up. It’s not your responsibility: Sometimes our instinct is to protect those around us from harm, but if someone close has an addiction problem then it may be better not to try and save them from their situation.
Stop Googling For “Drug Addiction Treatment Near Me,” Join Us For Drug Rehab In Fayetteville, NC
It can be tempting to try and help someone who is struggling with addiction, but the fact is that they have to want it. You can never control someone else’s behavior; you can only control yours. If they don’t show respect or care about what you say, nothing will change.
But if you do your best, that’s all you can ask of yourself.
While you can’t force anyone into treatment, there are steps you can take to help them understand the gravity of their addiction.
For instance, you can encourage them to call our facility for drug rehab in Fayetteville, NC for consultation because they most definitely will need professional guidance before they’ll be ready to seek out treatment on their own.
But if your loved one is already looking for help, you’re halfway there – no time to waste on “drug addiction treatment near me” Google searches, reach out to us today!
