Watching a loved one’s struggle with addiction can evoke a myriad of emotions, from sadness and frustration to hope and compassion. If you find yourself in this position, you must understand how to be present for your loved one without neglecting your needs. Here are some essential strategies for helping someone you care about in substance abuse recovery, while taking care of yourself along the way.
1. Educate Yourself About the Disease of Addiction
Knowledge is power. As you learn about substance abuse’s profound effects on the brain, you can start challenging long-held beliefs and reduce the stigma that addiction is a moral failing. This disease alters the brain’s reward system, making recovery a complex process that extends beyond mere willpower. Familiarize yourself with different therapeutic approaches and recovery models. This information will be invaluable, particularly if your loved one seeks professional treatment.
2. Do Not Judge or Blame
It’s natural to feel frustrated or find fault with your loved one, especially if their destructive behavior has caused pain or upheaval. However, criticism or shaming is counterproductive. Most people struggling with substance abuse already carry a heavy burden of guilt and shame. Instead, offer a compassionate, listening ear and let them know you believe in their ability to recover. Expressing empathy and understanding can fortify their motivation to change.
3. Understand the Line Between Helping and Enabling
Being supportive doesn’t mean shielding your loved one from the consequences of their actions. Enabling – such as giving them money or covering up for their actions – can inadvertently prolong the addiction by preventing them from experiencing its ramifications. Setting healthy boundaries and sticking to them is essential for everyone involved.
4. Adapt Your Environment
A location associated with substance use can be highly triggering for someone in early recovery. Before your loved one returns home from a stay in inpatient rehab, prepare by removing potential triggers, such as alcohol, drugs or drug-related paraphernalia. These actions show your commitment to their recovery and help minimize the risk of relapse.
5. Seek Support for Yourself
Loving someone through the ups and downs of addiction can be emotionally taxing and may even lead to burnout if you neglect self-care. Resources like a qualified therapist or an Al-Anon group can provide comfort and advice from others who have faced similar challenges. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury – it’s necessary for recharging your motivation and emotional resilience.
Specialized Programming in a Safe, Clinical Environment
At Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat, we offer a two-day intensive family workshop where you and your loved ones can begin unlearning the dysfunction that contributes to substance use disorders. We understand the challenges of living with a loved one’s chemical dependency and the complex emotions it can engender, including confusion, anger, guilt, resentment and stress. Please connect with us today if you have questions about our full continuum of care in a hospital-based setting.