How to Help Someone with an Addiction
Close to 50 million Americans over the age of 12 have struggled with some kind of substance abuse disorder in the past year. Attempting to calculate how many loved ones have also been impacted by this reality is virtually impossible. In other words, the odds are that you know someone dealing with addiction and it’s exacting a high price in terms of collateral damage.
Your first instinct may be to help the person with an addiction, but this can be easier said than done. Loved ones must support people with substance abuse issues. It’s just as essential that the helper understands the scope and depth of this effort.
How to Understand Someone with an Addiction
Addictions arrive in many forms. For the purposes of this post, we’ll focus on substance use. However, many of the same factors are at play with anything that triggers an addictive response. Here are some basics to help you get started on a non-stop journey of self-education:
People opt to try drugs or alcohol for varied reasons. Not all of them will become addicts, but for those who do, this was not a choice. We cannot control how our mind and body will respond to any potentially addictive element.
Some people enter a life of addiction due to factors like family history, traumatic experiences, or dealing with other mental or physical illnesses.
Addiction is a disease and must be approached from that angle.
Addicts can resist getting treatment partly because the addiction has rewired their brains. They deserve support and empathy, but in the end, they must take the step to work toward recovery.
If someone in your life is acting in a way that makes you suspect addiction, take the time to learn the red flags. Observe closely and compassionately before sharing these observations with other loved ones and/or professionals. If there’s any risk of violence or self-harm, take urgent steps to assure the safety of anyone who needs it. All of this will lead you to the moment when you raise the subject to the person in question.
How to Raise the Subject
It goes without saying that this is a step that’s fraught with stress and uncertainty. There’s no magic formula for doing this the “right” way, but there are some useful, hard-earned guidelines to consider.
Choose Your Time and Place Carefully: You’ll want minimal distractions and maximum time. Needless to say, this step must not take place if you know the person is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Consult with the person first, let them know you need to have a difficult conversation, schedule a time, and find the ideal setting for what could be a daunting experience.
State and Display Your Intentions: Let them know how much you care for them and that your only motivation is helping someone you love. Keep a dialogue going so it doesn’t feel like a lecture.
Be Specific: Tell them exactly what you’ve observed and why it has you worried. Remember that the first thing you want to convey is that you think there’s a problem. It’s not automatically about convincing anyone of anything.
Be Patient: You will likely be brushed aside or rebuked. Ask if you can set up a follow-up chat, and keep in mind that this could take several tries.
Things to Remember
Keep educating yourself about addiction and addiction recovery.
Make it crystal clear that you care and you’re willing to be there for the long haul.
Emphasize the importance of getting professional help.
Take care of yourself during this arduous process.
You can be of immense value by helping them find addiction counseling and resources. To learn more about making that happen, I invite you to reach out soon.