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Helping a Loved One

Helping a loved one find the strength to enroll in a rehabilitation program can be a difficult task. However, this decision could be the turning point in their journey toward recovery.

Locating a treatment facility that meets the specific requirements of your loved one is an effective way to uncover support the support they need. In doing so, they are provided with access to essential tools and expert advice needed to conquer addiction and pursue a fulfilling and healthy life.

Can Addiction be Treated?

Addiction is a chronic disease that can be treated effectively. Despite the common misconception, addiction is not a reflection of weakness or lack of willpower. It is a severe disease that alters the brain’s functioning.

Multiple strategies exist to address addiction and substance use disorders, including behavioral therapies, medication, and supportive networks. Starting addiction treatment early is crucial to improve the likelihood of a successful recovery. In fact, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health report that 21.7 million people require or receive regular substance use disorder treatment.

Questions to Ask Before Helping A Loved One

As you prepare to speak with your loved one about finding treatment, take a moment to reflect and ask yourself a few key questions to ensure effective communication:

When deciding whether you can offer assistance to someone, always take into account your relationship with that person and your ability to help. It’s important to communicate that you respect their boundaries and not overstep.

Conduct thorough research on addiction and the various treatment options available. This allows you to gain a deeper insight into your loved one’s situation and the challenges they are facing. By educating yourself on addiction, you can help your loved one make informed decisions about their treatment

It’s important to recognize that mental health challenges can play a role in addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, make sure to consider any underlying mental health concerns. For example, clinical depression typically involves symptoms like withdrawing from friends and losing interest in activities one used to enjoy, and these symptoms persist for a much longer period.

For someone to be diagnosed with clinical depression, the symptoms must last at least two weeks and demonstrate a change in one’s previous level of functioning, states the American Psychiatric Association.

Dual dignosis (also called co-occurring disorders) is when a person has both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, around 7.9 million adults in the United States have a dual diagnosis.

If your loved one has undergone treatment before, try inquiring about their previous experiences, specifically regarding what methods proved successful and what challenges they faced.

Selecting a time when your loved one is not under the influence of drugs or alcohol is key. This will allow for a more productive and meaningful conversation.

It is important to have realistic expectations for this conversation. For example, your goal might be simply getting your loved one to agree to go to treatment.

Consider the best time and place for this conversation. Choosing a time when your loved one is not under the influence of drugs or alcohol is important.

Be prepared to have an open and honest conversation as to why you feel your loved one could benefit from treatment.

What Not To Say When Approaching Your Loved One

To achieve the desired outcome, there are certain things to avoid saying during this conversation. These include:

How to Get Help for Your Addicted Loved One

Feeling uncertain about how to seek help for your loved one who is struggling with addiction? If you’re experiencing a sense of powerlessness, consider exploring the following:

Call a helpline: There are many helplines available to help you. These include the National Addiction Helpline and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline.
Talk to a treatment provider: Reach out to a treatment provider about your options. This a great starting point for those who don't know where to begin.
Go to a support group: Many support groups are available for families and friends of addicted loved ones. These groups offer valuable resources regarding recovery information and support.
Get help from the government: The government offers many resources to help families and friends of addicted loved ones. You can find information about these resources on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website.

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Give us a call today. Our admissions coordinators will answer any questions you may have about our program and walk you through the admissions process.

What Can I Do if My Loved One isn’t Ready for Treatment?

If your loved one is not ready for treatment, there are a few things you can do. You can:

Offer support: One way to show support to a loved one is by simply being present for them and actively listening to what they have to say.
Get help for yourself: Dealing with the addiction of a loved one can be extremely taxing on those close to the individual. It is important to take care of yourself during this time. Consider seeking support for yourself or attending support groups for help.
Be patient: Your loved one may not be ready for treatment right away. But that doesn't mean you should give up hope. Remain patient with your loved one and try again when the time feels right.
Avoid enabling: To prevent enabling your loved one, refrain from providing them with money or any items that could be used to purchase drugs or alcohol.
Set boundaries: Establishing boundaries with your loved ones is essential. This involves clearly communicating what actions you are willing and unwilling to take as they battle with addiction.
Get help from a professional: If you're uncertain about where to begin, seeking assistance from a professional is a viable option.