It is hard to watch a loved one struggle with drug or alcohol addiction and not get the help they need. Very often, it seems like nothing you say or do is working. The individual may not even believe they actually have a problem, leaving you frustrated and concerned about their wellbeing. If you’re wondering if there’s anything you can do to help them face reality, this article is for you. We’ll tell you some of the strategies which have been proven to work.
Stage an Intervention
Confrontational drug interventions are often shown on TV as a way of helping an addict who has hit rock bottom. However, a confrontational approach can backfire and it is actually best to intervene as soon as you realize your loved one has a problem. You need to do your research and seek professional guidance, so you don’t do more harm than good. Interventions must be carefully planned down to who is in the room and where the session takes place. The aim is to get the individual to accept that they need help and show the consequences of not getting treatment.
Educate Yourself and Your Loved One about Addiction
If you’ve never dealt with addiction, you may wonder why your loved one doesn’t just stop drinking or using drugs. Every addiction is different, but you need to understand the issues before you can help anyone. Learn about how addictions develop, what the signs are and how harrowing withdrawal can be.
Read up on what other addicts experienced so you know how patient and compassionate you need to be. You then need to have a talk with your loved one so you can understand how they feel and what they struggle with. Show them the research you’ve done into addiction and explain why you’re concerned. They may recognize some of the signs and realize they need help.
Encourage Them to Visit the Doctor
In some cases, a doctor can get through to an individual when families can’t. Take your loved one to see a doctor for a medical check-up. When you call to make the appointment, inform the doctor about the addiction. This will help them to prepare for the visit. They can identify some of the problems their patient may have and recommend treatment options. The doctor will also be able to diagnose any additional health problems which are developing because of the addiction.
Go to Counselling
Even if your loved one isn’t ready to admit they have a drug problem, their addiction is no doubt causing conflict in your marriage or family. Encourage them to go to therapy with you so you can discuss the challenges you’re having. Counselling provides a safe space in which they may be able to eventually talk about their problems with drugs or alcohol.
If your loved one is struggling with drugs or alcohol, it can be difficult to get through to them. Use the suggestions above to help them but don’t beat yourself up if you can’t get them to see they need help.
