Supporting a Loved One Recovering from Addiction

Addiction is tough. Addiction treatment is even tougher. It often requires significant lifestyle changes and can be emotionally and mentally taxing. It’s very important that we pledge our support to minimize the hardships our loved ones face during the recovery process. This can be accomplished with some simple do’s and don’ts when caring for someone who is recovering from addiction.

Things To Do

It is crucial to offer support in a sensitive manner with compassion. After all, it is a sensitive circumstance, so showing compassion is often the best course. From this compassion, trust starts to evolve. By building a certain level of trust, we can help them feel less alone.  

Encouragement is key. The best way to do this is to offer words or gestures of comfort. For example, phrases like “good job” or “you can do this” go a long way in terms of reassurance. We want our loved ones to know that we will never leave their side. A simple hug can also be just as effective.  

Some of us may not necessarily know what it’s like to suffer from addiction. Therefore, it’s critical that we educate ourselves, not only about addiction recovery itself but to the specific addiction that our loved one is struggling with. Gaining a high level of knowledge about the subject is the ultimate definition of dedication, as you have proven that you are willing to take the time to help and are 100% invested in your loved ones’ recovery. 

It’s also important to respect their privacy and give them space, but at the same time set boundaries and establish clear expectations, which may include setting rules for behavior and communication. Attending meetings or appointments can be awkward, so accompanying your loved one will help them feel more comfortable, less anxious, and less stressed. 

Things To Avoid

Just as imperative to the recovery process are things that we should not do to our loved ones. For example, don’t belittle or shame them in any way. They probably already feel as if they have let everyone down, so there is no reason to make things worse. 

Don’t play the blame game as there are likely multiple factors that attributed to their substance abuse in the first place. Along the same lines, ultimatums are not recommended. This is because it will make your loved one feel trapped, and the added pressure could spark a relapse.  

Substance abuse addiction treatment can often be a long process. Everybody responds to treatment differently, so some may take longer than others, and that’s okay. What’s not okay is rushing the process. Studies reveal that substance abuse relapse ranges from 40-60%, so for this reason it’s crucial that we remain patient. 

An enabler avoids confrontation in hopes that the problem will resolve itself. It rarely ever does, therefore leaving to our loved ones to continue their destructive habits. However, the opposite also holds true – don’t take on more than you can handle. We must be conscious of our own well-being and trying to do too much can cause us unnecessary stress. Finding a healthy balance is the best option for both parties.