Help Against Drug and Alcohol Addiction

Addiction is a battle that impacts millions of lives including the families of those who are addicted to drugs or alcohol. Knowing how to find help for a loved one who is struggling with addiction is essential to provide them with the ability to live a healthy and sober life.

Get Educated About Addiction

Before you can truly lend help to a friend or loved one who is battling an addiction, it is important to learn everything you can about the drug or substance they are using. Learn as much as possible about addiction including both the physical and psychological affects and withdrawal symptoms to watch for in your loved one. Research adverse effects of quitting a substance cold turkey and learn how to approach a loved one if they are in denial of having an addiction altogether.

Provide Mental and Emotional Support

Reach out to your loved one and offer mental and emotional support, especially if they have already made the decision to face and overcome their addiction. Reassure your loved one that you are there for them and offer support 24/7 whenever they are in need. Express your love and care for them while also reiterating that you are not ashamed of them or upset with them, as this can quickly lead to social withdrawal and isolation. Individuals who truly want to make a change in their lives while overcoming an addiction require immense emotional and mental support from family and friends in their lives.

Avoid Enabling Your Friend or Loved One

Never enable your friend or loved one to use drugs or alcohol in your presence, even if they proclaim that they are not doing much or that it will not harm them. Enabling loved ones while they use drugs and alcohol around you when they are struggling with a severe addiction only perpetuates the issues they are struggling to defeat. Whenever you are spending time with a loved one, ensure it is in a drug and alcohol-free zone. Even if you enjoy drinking alcohol, avoid doing so around those who have difficulties steering clear of temptation when in an environment where alcohol is present and openly-available.

Addiction is a Lifelong Battle

Always remember that addiction is a lifelong battle and it is not a linear one. Unfortunately, it is possible for your loved one to complete multiple rehab treatment programs and still relapse. Relapsing is part of the addiction disease, which is why it is imperative to offer continued support and motivation even after a rehabilitation program is completed by your loved one. Avoid shaming your friend or loved one if they happen to relapse but still want to overcome their addiction, as this is likely to discourage them from attempting new methods and techniques.

Find Professional Help

Seek out professional help for your friend and loved one if you believe they are likely to benefit from individual therapy, group counseling, or AA/NA meetings. Finding a local therapist or counselor who specializes in addiction and recovery is highly advisable when your loved one is ready and willing to take advantage of local resources and tools available to them.

Research Rehabilitation Centers and Programs

Research rehabilitation centers and programs for your loved one when you believe they are best-suited for inpatient and outpatient solutions. Find a rehabilitation center that provides inpatient treatment when you want to offer your loved one a safe, healthy, and zero-tolerance environment while they are completing the detox and recovery process.

Find a rehabilitation treatment facility that includes a dual diagnosis solution if your loved one has struggled with depression, anxiety, and other underlying issues that have contributed to their addiction. Inpatient rehab programs are optimal for those who are in need of additional mental and emotional support after a severe addiction has taken a toll on their life. Inpatient rehab facilities are ideal for anyone who requires medically-supervised detox solutions, individual therapy sessions, group counseling, and even a reintroduction to structure and routine. With an inpatient rehab facility center, ensure your loved one is properly cared for with the right surroundings throughout the duration of their program.

When you know how you can help a friend with addiction recovery, share resources and options you have found to encourage and motivate them to become proactive in their future. Showing you care and that you support your friend or loved one is one of the most important steps to take to help them begin living a life that is drug and alcohol-free.