Few situations in life are as heartbreaking as watching a loved one struggle with a drinking problem or drug use. But while you can’t take away their pain and conflict, you can work with them to research different addiction treatment services, choose a rehabilitation facility, and support them on a journey to newfound wellness. Here are our top suggestions for helping someone you love get the help they need.
Approach the Conversation With Empathy and Care
Substance use disorder (SUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) create a range of behaviors and emotions. If your family member or friend has feelings of shame, guilt, or defensiveness, it’s crucial to discuss the concept of treatment in a non-judgmental and supportive manner.
The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences states there are 6 key actions that make difficult conversations easier:
- Prepare for the conversation
- Create the right environment
- Establish a framework for connection
- Demonstrate active listening
- Leverage effective communication techniques
- Seek solutions together
Begin by expressing your concern for their well-being rather than focusing on the negative consequences of their behavior. For example, instead of saying, “You’re ruining your life with drugs or alcohol,” try, “I’m really worried about your health and happiness. I love you, and I want to see you feel better and get the help you deserve.”
Offering a listening ear and showing that you care can help your loved one feel understood and less likely to shut down. The goal isn’t to make them feel guilty but to open a dialogue about the possibility of recovery and healing.
Avoid Force or Ultimatums
It’s only natural to feel frustrated by your loved one’s SUD or AUD, especially if you’ve experienced considerable negative consequences because of their actions. However, forcing someone into rehab is never a good idea. Often referred to as “involuntary treatment”, state laws vary as to the circumstances that permit the courts or family members to do this.
You also don’t want to pressure your loved one through ultimatums such as “If you don’t go to rehab, I’ll leave you” or trying to manipulate the person into treatment through threats. While this approach may seem effective in the short term, it’s unlikely to work in the long run, and they might feel resentful or resistant to treatment efforts altogether.
If you anticipate that, despite your best efforts, a conversation about rehabilitation won’t go well, enlist the help of a trained interventionist. This process may help provide your loved one with the autonomy to make their own decision about treatment based on trust and a sense of ownership.
Don’t Try Detoxing at Home
Detoxing from certain substances—particularly alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids—can cause severe withdrawal symptoms that may result in life-threatening complications. Without professional oversight, there’s a risk of seizures, heart problems—or even death.
Instead of attempting to handle the detox process at home, encourage your loved one to seek medical attention. Many addiction treatment centers, like Ivory Plains Recovery Center, offer medically supervised detox programs that ensure the person’s safety while they go through the withdrawal process and support the transition into rehabilitation.
Explore the Pros and Cons of Going Away to Rehab
One of the most important decisions someone with AUD or SUD may face is whether to attend a treatment facility close to home or go away for treatment. There are benefits to both options. In this article, we outline some of the key points to review with your family member or friend so they can make the right choice for their needs.
Encourage a Step-by-Step Approach
If your loved one is hesitant about entering rehab but understands their disease is threatening their well-being, it might be helpful to ease them into the process. This might involve a partial hospitalization program, structured outpatient therapy, or even regularly attending support group meetings like Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous before committing to full inpatient treatment.
Breaking the process into smaller, manageable actions may alleviate some of the overwhelming feelings associated with seeking help. If their overall health isn’t in immediate jeopardy, reassure your loved one that they don’t need to make a huge leap all at once and that you’ll support them one progressive step at a time.
Talk With Ivory Plains
At our addiction rehabilitation program in Adair, Iowa, we have a dedicated, compassionate admissions team ready to answer all questions regarding the stages of detoxification and treatment. Call us today, and gather information that demystifies the process so your loved one can focus on why their health matters and what they can do about it.
And that’s important to remember. While you can offer guidance and encouragement, ultimately, the decision to seek treatment lies with the individual. Be patient and supportive, and know that your care and concern can make a profound difference in their recovery journey.
