Tips for Supporting a Loved One Going Through Recovery from a Drug or Alcohol Addiction
Seeing a close friend or beloved family member cope with an addiction to drugs or alcohol can be extremely difficult. Addiction can change a person, and it can be very hard to see someone you love dealing with the many consequences that can disrupt their life. However, your love and support can make a huge difference when a friend or family member gets to the point where they want to make changes and confront their addiction. Use the following tips to help you support a loved one who is on the road to recovery from an addiction to drugs or alcohol:
1. Learn About Addiction
If you have never dealt with any type of addiction, you may find it confusing that your loved one continues to use drugs or alcohol even though doing so is causing numerous issues in their life. Addiction is very complicated—someone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol does not continue using simply because they want to. If you want to provide the support that your loved one will need while recovering from an addiction, one of the best things that you can do is learn more about addiction and how it affects a person.
2. Encourage Your Loved One to Seek Professional Treatment
When a person is addicted to drugs or alcohol, simply deciding to no longer use will rarely be successful. If your loved one is serious about recovery, they will have the best results by seeking professional drug and alcohol addiction treatment at a rehab facility. During a stay in a rehab facility, your loved one will have professional guidance and counseling. This choice can make a huge difference when overcoming an addiction. You can help your loved one by assisting in the search for a local drug and alcohol treatment center.
3. Be Available
Completing a drug and alcohol treatment program does not mean that your loved one will not face challenges. Unfortunately, many people still find it very difficult to resume day to day life after leaving a rehab facility. If you want to support your loved one's recovery and lower the risk of a relapse, make sure that you are available. Your loved one may need someone to talk to after a difficult day. You may also want to make plans to take part in healthy and fun activities that will help your loved one adjust to a sober lifestyle.