Around 21 million Americans in the U.S have a substance use disorder, which shows that many of our peers are going through recovery.
Addiction recovery isn’t a linear process, so we must support our loved ones through this hardship. Perhaps you’ve got a friend or family member in recovery, but you’re not sure how to fully be there for them.
Sounds like you? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. Here is how to support those in addiction recovery.
Educate Yourself on Addiction and Recovery
To help your loved one stay sober, it’s important to learn about addiction and the recovery process. Familiarize yourself with the common triggers and the psychological effect of having an addiction.
Your loved one will appreciate the effort and you’ll be better equipped if they relapse.
Don’t Have Unrealistic Expectations
Regardless of whether your loved one has a drug problem or is an alcoholic, what they’re going through is enormous.
As someone who has never struggled with addiction, you must lower your expectations because your loved one is trying the best they can. Also, if you show you’re unimpressed with their progress, then the person in recovery may relapse because they’ll feel like a failure.
If you’re struggling, then reach out to this rehab center for help: https://hoperisingrecovery.com/treatment-at-a-detox-center-in-utah/.
Offer Stress Relief Techniques
Another major cause of relapse is stress, especially in the first few months of leaving rehab. Although it’s impossible to remove all sources of discomfort, you can help by trying stress relief techniques together.
For instance, teach your loved one to journal or practice meditation every morning to keep their mind at ease.
Set Healthy Boundaries
When your loved one has a drug addiction, you must maintain healthy boundaries. The main problem people have is protecting those in recovery from the consequences of their addiction, but this isn’t healthy as you’re enabling them. Plus, you’re removing any motivation for them to recover from their addiction.
Instead, gently hold them accountable by telling them what is and isn’t acceptable. For instance, ban drug use from the home and don’t cover up for them if they miss work because of their substance abuse.
Take Care of Yourself
People who are caring for those with a substance abuse problem often forget to care for themselves. But if you aren’t mentally and physically well, then you can’t help your loved one.
Because of this, make sure you exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and seek counseling if it becomes overwhelming.
Help a Loved One Through Addiction Recovery
Hopefully, after reading this article, you’re more comfortable about helping your loved ones through their addiction recovery.
Start by educating yourself on addiction, avoid having unrealistic expectations, and set healthy boundaries with your loved one. You should also try stress relief techniques and prioritize self-care as it’s a difficult process. Good luck!
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