Watching a family member struggle under the weight of addiction is one of the most painful things families bear witness to even as hope lingers for better days ahead. It is possible to help a loved one find the support he or she needs, although it will not be an easy road. It is not up to the family to decide as it ultimately is up to the person with addiction. It is worthwhile when the family member is able to lead a healthy, long and sober life.
Consult a Professional
Although a person might think he or she knows how to handle the situation, it is important to seek professional help when necessary. It can be difficult to reach out for help. No matter how much the person is loved, someone who is experienced in helping people in need of treatment can provide unbiased tips and tools to get started.
Intervention Options
Intervention is never easy for the people involved but it can be an essential part of helping a loved one seek the necessary help. Different ways to go about an intervention can include the following options:
Should you hire an interventionist: hiring someone with experience handling interventions can be highly beneficial and help encourage loved ones to seek the help necessary. An interventionist can help prevent things from escalating during the conversation.
Should family be brought in: attempting to confront a loved one solo about addiction can be a daunting task. Bringing as much support (positive and affirming, not negative) as possible can really make the difference. The invitation should be made to those willing to help the loved one see the need for treatment and won’t derail the intervention.
What to say: thinking through what ought to be said during an intervention isn’t easy but writing down what a person wants to address and how to encourage the loved one can be quite helpful. Remember not to beat round the bush, rather get to the point and make the person understand why this is necessary.
Consequences: thinking through how to promote positive reinforcement is crucial to the success of the intervention. A family member’s life depends on the family bringing all they have to the table and establishing clear consequences and boundaries with expectations. This will help encourage change.
If he or she says no: going into an intervention, it is possible the answer will be no. if the loved one refuses treatment, it is important to enforce consequences and stick true to what is said. Follow up matters as well to make sure the person does what he or she says they will do.
Treatment is encouraged for individuals with addiction. When a family member wants to seek recovery, he or she will be ready and able to accept the necessary steps towards recovery. It will still be a long road full of ups and downs, but it will be much easier than trying to drag a person into recovery who cannot admit addiction is a problem. People with addiction need all the support that can be provided so family members play a critical role in helping the person get the necessary help.
At Cypress Lakes Lodge, we bring integrative therapies to life during treatment. Our unique vision of synergizing holistic and therapeutic treatment creates an effective treatment program for addiction and dual diagnosis issues. Call us today for more information, at 1-877-938-1577.