Watching a loved one struggle with a substance use disorder is a struggle in and of itself. It is hard to witness the toll their addiction is taking on their lives and the effect it has on their career, education, home, finances and personal connections. You may begin to see their character change as they become more secretive or paranoid as they spiral deeper into their problem.

Helping a loved one, who may be defensive or in denial, address their addiction is a delicate task, however there are ways to go about it in a compassionate, yet effective, manner.

Create a Judgement-Free and Supportive Environment

While there are a number of reasons for a person to begin abusing drugs or alcohol, many of which the individual themselves may not even understand, it is important to create a safe space for them to open up. Welcome them to share how they are feeling and what they are going through in a supportive environment, free from judgment or disparaging language. Though you see them hiding a large part of their life, continue to respect their privacy in order to build mutual trust. You want them to know that you are not there to berate them, but instead for them to get the help they need.

Get Informed

While it may seem hard to relate to your loved one as they battle with substance abuse, educating yourself on their addiction can help you to better understand them and their struggle.

Gain knowledge on how addiction impacts an individual both physically as well as psychologically. Learn about symptoms and signs of withdrawal as well as signs of an overdose. Learn the appropriate language to use when referred to their substance dependence, in order to effectively and productively communicate with your loved one.

Seek Professional Help

Seeking the right professional help from the start can make all the difference in determining how the rest of the recovery process will progress.

At Lake Avenue Recovery, we start with a brief assessment to determine the appropriate treatment suitable for your loved one. If the course of their treatment requires medical supervision or monitoring, they will be guided to the care of trained medical staff to ensure their well-being throughout the process.  Levels of care may include Detoxification and Rehabilitation before continuing with daytime or evening treatment for Recovery maintenance. Our programs are designed to give them the tools they need to start their journey towards lifelong recovery. We aim to help them identify the root cause of their dependence, helping to gain insight and make necessary changes in life.

Addressing a loved one’s addiction is a sensitive subject, but with the rights steps and right treatment program guiding you, the weight of the struggle can be lifted.