5 Ways to Help Family and Friends Struggling with Addiction

Addiction is a debilitating disease that affects millions of people throughout the world. It can be devastating to witness anyone you care about suffer. However, there are things you can do to help your loved ones live happier, healthier lives. If you’re struggling to help someone in your life deal with addiction, here are a few tactics you can use so that you can both live your lives to the fullest.

Suggest Rehabilitation

Addiction is a touchy subject, so it is best to broach the topic extremely carefully. However, if the person suffering from addiction is very close to you, then they may feel comfortable hearing about treatment options from you.

While rehab probably shouldn’t be the first thing you demand of your loved one, getting them to receive help is generally the best ultimate goal. Assisting someone you care about to realize that they need professional help is the most important step on the rocky road of a loved one’s addiction.

Keep reading to learn about some tips to help get you to the point where you can bring up the idea of seeking professional assistance.

Listen

To get your loved one to think about seeking help, you need to gain their trust. One of the best ways to do so is just to listen to them. Truly be there for your loved one. Make them feel heard and respected. They will be much more likely to listen to you if you have made it clear that you truly care for and want what is best for them.

Additionally, if you listen to them first and more fully understand their situation, then you will be more likely to provide the best advice possible.

Educate Yourself

Before you can suggest actions for your loved one to take to fight their addiction, you need to know what the options are. Read up on all the different opportunities that exist when it comes to combating addiction so that you can be well-informed on the subject.

The internet is a great place to start, but you could also consider meeting with healthcare or psychiatric professionals. Educating yourself about common addiction signs and symptoms can be crucial if you suspect that someone you care about is suffering from addiction, but you do not know for sure.

Avoid Negativity

When you speak to your loved one about their addiction, try to put your emotions aside. Many family members experience frustration or even anger when their loved ones are dealing with addiction and do not get the help they need right away or make poor choices. Try your best not to be demanding, preachy, or lecture them because no one likes to be talked to in that way under any circumstances.

Set Boundaries

Ultimately it is important to know that you cannot force someone to seek out help, and it is not your fault if they refuse to do so. Therefore, in your desire to help your loved one, you must also take care of yourself. If it becomes too difficult for you to be around your family or friend, then you are completely allowed to take a break as long as you explain the reasoning clearly.

One of the most important things to always keep in mind is that addiction is a disease just like the flu and it can be treated. Your loved one is experiencing chemical imbalances in their brain that will often not make them feel or act like themselves. Try your best to be patient as you both journey down the long road to recovery.