If you have a friend or loved one who is struggling with a substance abuse disorder, you may feel powerless because you don’t understand or know how to help them. These disorders can be very complex and difficult to overcome. But, there are ways that you can help your loved ones get the support they need to recover.
Here are six simple tips to help someone with addiction:
1. Seek to understand what they are going through
Whether they are battling addiction on their own, just enrolling in rehab, are going through the rehabilitation process, or are in aftercare, being empathetic and supportive will help them feel heard and understood. Use online resources to learn about addiction and the rehabilitation process as well as the psychology behind it so that you can be an active listener and contributor to what they have to say.
2. Offer your time
It is okay if you don’t completely understand what they are going through. What is important is to make sure that they know they’re not alone in their journey by providing support and being available when they need it most. This could be something as simple as listening to them and allowing them to be open about their situation or making time to see them if they invite you somewhere.
3. Listen to and talk with the person
People struggling with addiction often feel isolated because of judgment from others, especially when they are trying so hard to recover. It is important, however, that you don’t push your loved ones into talking about what happened or what they are going through. If you aren’t careful, your advice could push them away and make it more difficult for them to open up about their problem in the future.
4. Refrain from making judgmental comments or giving unhelpful advice
Of course, this isn’t always easy because of how frustrating an addiction can be on loved ones. However, try to remember that the person is already dealing with a lot of guilt and shame. Depending on the person and whether or not they battle other mental health disorders simultaneously, this may be very difficult and may even seem like you are walking on eggshells. Just be there for them and show that you care.
5. Be patient
People who suffer from addictions often take longer than the average person to get better because their brain has been altered due to substance abuse. The most important thing that you can do is be patient with them and remember that there is light at the end of the tunnel. It isn’t easy to get better, but they will feel more supported if you allow them time to recover.
6. Don’t try to force a solution on your loved one
It can be frustrating when someone doesn’t immediately know how to help themselves or what they need to do in order to get better. However, it is important not to push your agenda or solutions onto them and instead let them take the lead in their own recovery process. Let them come up with solutions on their own after they have sought professional help.
If you are feeling lost or helpless, it is okay to reach out for help. There are many rehabs that can provide the support and guidance that your loved ones need to get better.