Addiction has been an increasingly worrying factor for the USA, costing the American society on average, “$740 billion dollars per year,” stated by the American Addiction Centers. At some point in your life, you may have experienced a loved one suffering from the repercussions of an addiction, whether it be from alcohol, drugs or sex.
Supporting someone through such a stage in their life can often become overwhelming at times. We urge you to make a few small changes that could transform your experience with helping someone close to you suffer from addiction.
There are many resources available to help you through this difficult time. Making a few small changes in your own life can help you be a better support for your loved one. First, take care of yourself. This is a difficult and often emotional journey, and it’s important to make sure you’re taking care of your own physical and mental health. Second, educate yourself about addiction treatment program options. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to help your loved one. Finally, be patient and understand that relapse is a part of recovery. It’s important to be there for your loved one, even when things are tough.
Reduce Stress Levels
If you and/or your loved one surround yourselves in hostile environment(s), this may lead towards having consistently high levels of anxiety and stress. Reducing the levels of stress is a must and can be done by removing yourself from situations which may seem unsettling or uncomfortable.
Exercising regularly through running or participating in sports activities has been proven to reduce stress levels due to an increased level of endorphins being released by your body.
Getting involved in these types of activities allow your loved one to connect with other friends and acquaintances on more significant level. Whilst engaging in social interactions, you may even encounter them having a laugh or two which is a fantastic stress reliever!
Make Tough Decisions You May Not Want To
Making tough decisions is always hard and when it comes to addiction. These types of decisions may be one of the toughest you ever encounter. Remember though, they may be the toughest, but at the same time, the most crucial…
If your partner, friend, or loved one is putting you in a tricky situation, it may seem easier to give in to them, ‘just this one time’.
STAY STRONG!
Next time you are stuck between the easy route, or the response you’d prefer to avoid, keep in mind their road to success.
Communication is Key
As popular as the saying may be, with anyone close to you suffering from addiction, it certainly holds its own. Being open and keeping the lines of communication open is essential. Allowing them to open up to you provides them with a lifeline, as well as re-assures them that you are there every step of the way.
Empathy Goes A Long Way
By definition, being empathetic is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
Equipping yourself with empathy is one of the most effective strategies in helping a loved one tackle addiction.
Empathising with someone battling addiction will unravel a wide range of emotions you may not have previously been aware of. After understanding these new emotions held by the recipient will lead to a more positive and constructive relationship between the both of you.
Stay Positive
Implementing any of these strategies can help make positive change in your relationship alongside their well-being. Times may get difficult, but it’s important to always stay positive and remember the goal, sobriety.
If you or your loved one have found the road to sobriety too difficult to overcome alone, it may be time to seek professional advice. There are a range of different Sober living and detox facilities available, offering structured programmes to best suit all types of addiction.