When someone you care about is grappling with the challenges of addiction, it can impact every aspect of their life, including your relationship with them. Loving and supporting someone dealing with substance use disorder can be tough. You might feel lost and unsure about what steps to take. Fortunately, many people have faced similar situations and sought answers. Read on to discover four ways you can support someone in recovery as they work toward overcoming their addiction.
Honest Communication
Open and honest communication is the cornerstone of a healthy relationship and is essential during recovery. Substance use often comes with a pattern of dishonesty, minimization, or secrecy. While you can’t control your loved one’s behavior, you can initiate clear, straightforward communication.
Lead by example by being honest and open with your loved one. Demonstrating transparency shows your continued faith in them and your commitment to rebuilding trust. It also allows you to express your needs and expectations, putting you on the same path.
Providing Reassurance
During their battle with addiction, your loved one may feel overwhelmingly isolated. This isolation can create a cycle of substance use as a way to escape negative thoughts and feelings, leading to further self-isolation. Letting them know you’re there for them is crucial, providing a safe haven when they want help.
While saying this in person is best, you can also reach out through phone calls or text messages. Express your care and support through loving messages or voicemails. Not everyone may be ready to hear these messages of assurance and hope, but they lay the groundwork for people to know where to turn when they are ready.
Setting Clear Boundaries
Establishing boundaries can be challenging, especially with a family member struggling with addiction. It’s essential to recognize that your loved one is not the same person they were before using drugs or alcohol. Being intoxicated, experiencing withdrawals, or seeking mind-altering substances can drastically alter a person’s thoughts and behaviors, leading to desperation and fear. They might engage in dishonest actions, like lying, stealing, or cheating, to satisfy their cravings, even if it conflicts with their moral character.
Setting boundaries, such as enforcing the rule that your loved one cannot be present at home while intoxicated, is tough but necessary for them to face the consequences that could drive them toward recovery. Remember that without negative outcomes, there is no motivation for them to change their behavior. Setting boundaries becomes more manageable when you have the support of other friends and family members, creating a united front to handle these challenging situations.
Taking Care of Yourself
As friends and family of those struggling with addiction, it might sometimes feel like we are experiencing more pain than they are. We often prioritize their needs above our own, resulting in exhaustion and resentment. While trying to assist your loved one, it’s crucial not to forget about yourself. It may seem selfish, especially during this critical time, but self-care is essential at all stages of your loved one’s recovery journey.
Numerous resources are available to help you, including Bradford’s Family Program, Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, and individual therapy. Remember that you need to take care of yourself to be able to care for others when the time comes.
Supporting a loved one through their recovery from drug addiction can change your life and your relationship with them. Substance use affects the individual and the family and friend network. You can lay the foundation for a healthier relationship by offering support during their recovery journey. It’s possible to regain both your and your loved one’s life.
If you have a loved one struggling with addiction, please know that help is available for both of you. Reach out to us 24/7 at 205-647-1945 to start the healing process today.