When you love someone who struggles with addiction, you might feel scared, lonely, and hopeless. These feelings can be paralyzing. Addiction affects all aspects of a person’s life as well as those who love them. Addiction is very complex and alters the way the brain functions.
Nothing you say or do will make your loved one end his or her substance abuse, but you can convince your loved one to go to treatment. Here are some ways you can help:
- Tell your loved one why you are concerned. Do not make accusations, use shameful language, or become confrontational. Make it a conversation, not a confrontation.
- When you talk to your loved one, use the word “I” instead of “you.” For example, say, “I feel so sad and helpless. I want to help you.” This can help encourage your loved one to get help.
- Coordinate an intervention with your loved one’s family members and friends. Everyone can prepare what he or she wants to say. Intervention can be very stressful and difficult, but is a great to show your loved one just how loved and valuable he or she is to everyone involved.
- Keep a positive attitude and provide some guidance for treatment and recovery. When your loved one decides to go to treatment, remember to continue showing support and encouragement. Addiction is a hard battle to fight.
- Addiction is powerful. It can be hard for some people to stop using. When a person tries to stop using drugs or alcohol, his or her body craves the substances and withdrawals can be extremely painful. He or she must adjust to a new lifestyle when going through treatment and in recovery.
Addiction is a struggle many people experience every day. Recovery is possible and there is hope for substance-free living. Continue to show love, support, and a positive attitude for your loved one’s future.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction, get help now. Do not wait another day. Addiction is treatable and recovery is possible.
Cypress Lakes Lodge offers treatment for addiction in a peaceful, remote, oxygen-rich environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204