Helping someone you care about who struggles with substance abuse can be a challenge. While there is no one-size-fits all approach to getting them off drugs, Phoenix residents will find relief at Spring Board Recovery residential treatment center in Phoenix. Here are some strategies for getting your loved one the treatment they need for drug addiction.
Drug Addiction: Recognize What You Don’t Know
Without proper knowledge, it can be easy to overlook signs of addiction or signs of drug abuse if you don’t have the right information. Educating yourself on addiction prevention measures will give you peace of mind in times when they may appear unexpectedly.
Addiction can be a complex issue, and it’s okay to not know everything. It is essential to take the time to understand your loved one’s illness and how it impacts you; this way, you will also be more informed if help may be needed.
Get Support
Addicts often don’t realize how much their family and friends care. So don’t wait until they reach rock bottom before reaching out – show your loved one that you are here for them in this journey towards recovery by communicating your concerns and offering your assistance.
Encourage them to seek assistance
Addiction like other diseases can be treated when caught early. Don’t be shocked if they refuse or deny seeking help; keep insisting that they seek therapy but don’t make them feel ashamed or guilty for doing so.
Support recovery as an ongoing endeavor
After your loved one enters treatment, it is essential that you remain involved. Encourage them to attend meetings and ongoing care as well as support groups for addicts’ families. Show them that you are their rock and will be there with them every step of the way.
Take Care of Yourself
While this may seem selfish, it’s essential that you take care of yourself so you can support those around you and make informed decisions. Get enough sleep, get active, and nourish yourself appropriately to meet your own needs. If a loved one’s substance abuse has left you struggling, don’t be afraid to seek therapy for help.
How to Talk to Your Loved One About Addiction
There are some things you should avoid when discussing addiction with someone close to you.
- Avoid preaching, lecturing, threatening or moralizing them.
- Emotional appeals only serve to increase guilt and the desire for drugs.
- They may lie or make excuses for their behavior without explanation.
- Take over their responsibilities – This shields them against the consequences of their actions.
Facilitate their behavior by covering up abuse or providing money for Drug Addiction
Arguing with Your Family Members When They Use Drugs — When your loved one is using drugs, they likely won’t be able to hold a rational conversation and may not listen to what you have to say.
It isn’t your responsibility to feel guilty or responsible for another’s actions.
You can help your loved one seek treatment if they are abusing drugs. While being supportive and loving is key, don’t stop there; keep pushing them towards recovery with this first step towards living a happy and healthy life after recovery.
Understanding Drug Addiction
People use drugs for many reasons, including curiosity, pleasure, pain relief and even to enhance athletic performance. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to recognize when drug use becomes problematic.
Drug abuse and addiction usually go beyond simply how often someone uses drugs. It’s about the reasons people use drugs and the consequences that follow from using them. If substance abuse is leading to problems like loss of employment or stress in relationships, then you may have an issue.
Signs and symptoms of drug abuse
Drug use can be detected through various physical and psychological signs. Every drug is different, and each has its own distinct symptoms. Here are some warning signs that your loved one may be addicted to substances.
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Mood swings
- Resignation from loved ones
- Glassy or red eyes
- Nose stuffy or runny
- Problems at school and work
- Lack of motivation and energy
- Neglecting to take care of personal grooming needs.
- Paying less attention to hobbies, sports and other favorite activities.
- Alterations in sleeping patterns.
- Sudden money requests or changes in spending habits could indicate a sudden need.
