Thursday, September 17, 2015

Learn How To Support A Love One Struggling With Addiction

By D'angelo G. Deighan


It is incredibly difficult to witness a friend or relative struggling with substance abuse and dependence. Approaching the topic can prove emotional and may be incredibly sensitive for the individual often leading to denial, resentment, and anger. Learning how to support a love one struggling with addiction can equip families and friends with the knowledge on the best ways of approaching and managing the situation.

Living with a loved one addicted to drugs or alcohol often leads to constant struggles. Unfortunately walking away is not that easy and may leave one experiencing excess guilt and concern for the well-being of the sufferer. Learning ways to better manage such stress and offer assistance to the abuser can aid in working towards a healthier outcome.

Once you are aware of the dependence that one is affected by, it requires a fast approach to protect the abuser. Individuals having to deal in addictive disease patterns may no longer function at a place of employment or within their personal lives. It is important that all friends and family concerned for wellness take the right approach to aid in achieving the best results.

The first step is to learn as much about the diseases alcoholism and drug dependency depending on which substance disorder an individual is affected by. This will provide a clear understanding of the symptoms experienced by the individual and the stages of abuse that can occur. Resources are available online and in consultation with recovery facilities.

Once you are ready to speak to the individual ensure that it is in a relaxed and non-judgmental setting. Do not force someone to listen or burden them with your opinions, but offer support and express how concerned you may be. Do not wait until the person has reached their lowest point, but advise on ways of tackling the problem before it leads to complete loss.

Visiting a recovery center and advising on attending meetings alongside the dependent can aid in relieving stress. The person may understand your concern and feel less isolated with assistance. It is important that one think about what to say and not to approach someone with blame and forced opinions.

Getting involved in the support and healing of someone with an addiction requires time and patience. While you should not pressurize affected persons into changing, do not become a pushover and voice your concerns and ways of helping them out of the disease. An unconditional approach and recommendations by a professional will aid in such processes.




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