People who struggle with a substance use disorder such as alcohol addiction feel very alone. They may have pushed their loved ones away with words and behavior, and even if those people are still there trying to offer support, the lack of understanding among all parties can make healthy, productive connections nearly impossible. In fact, there are ways for you to offer alcohol addiction help to someone you care about. Helping them receive alcohol addiction treatment is one way of helping a loved one with alcohol addiction. There are others.
To learn more about alcohol addiction treatment at Roaring Brook Recovery, reach out to us by calling 855.590.9944. One of our experienced, highly trained, and compassionate staff members will answer your questions about alcohol addiction help and how you can be a part of it.
Helping a Loved one with Alcohol Addiction
Your loved one has an alcohol use disorder (AUD). They are either in denial, not able to see or acknowledge that there is a problem, or they admit to having a problem but are too afraid to begin recovery, so they avoid ever addressing or talking about it. The dynamics between you may have become estranged, may be fraught with anger and conflict, or you may be bending over backward to keep them in your life, often by enabling their behavior out of fear of losing them. If they are out of your sight, you fear that things may get even worse for them.
Ultimately, the goal is to sidestep these possibilities. But how is helping someone with alcohol addiction supposed to work? First and foremost, be patient and careful as you approach the topic—but not so careful that you never get to the hard parts. The goals of strengthening your communication and bonds with an addicted loved one are many, but ultimately you want to help them sign up for and receive addiction treatment.
Positive and Productive Tips for Interacting with an Addicted Loved One
The most important thing to remember is that your compassion and concern are going to come through. Deep down, your friend or family member will feel your caring. Helping someone with addiction is one of the most important things you can do in your life. Your loved one is lucky to have you.
Below are some things to keep in mind to help a loved one with alcohol addiction:
Make sure you know what you’re talking about
This means doing your research and learning about alcohol addiction—the stages, dangers, and effects. If your loved one gets the idea that you are well-informed and have worked to become knowledgeable, it will have an impact. Plus, your education in AUDs helps you recognize warning signs and patterns as they emerge in your loved one.
Be ready for failure—at first
When you first approach an addicted loved one, you can expect anger, denial, excuses, or resentment. They may tell you that you’ve hurt them deeply with an accusation. (Remember, it is not an accusation because addiction is not a crime or a fault—it is a disease.) Remain calm and lead with love and compassion. The first conversation rarely goes beautifully. But having that first talk expresses that you are thinking about them and ready to talk when they are.
Practice non-judgmental honesty
Being truthful does not mean being harsh or arrogant. Stating true things about addiction, about what you have observed in your loved one, and about what you believe or fear about the situation can be done without judgment—and that is the best way to get through to them without emotional overlays that can delay or complicate communication.
Listen with empathy
Even when they make excuses or work hard to deny what you see, listen. Don’t interrupt. Not only will you learn how their mind works, but you’ll also show them how willing you are to be there for them. When you’re done listening, you get to say some things. You might acknowledge how scary it must feel to think about not drinking anymore. You can say you are here when they are ready to talk more about their alcohol use. By letting them know you actually do understand things from their perspective and that you are not going anywhere, you make space for the next time.
Let them know that you think they need help
Make sure you also clarify that you are there to support them when they feel ready. Encouraging help-seeking is a process that may involve numerous revisits until your loved one is ready.
Be there for them
Recovery lasts a lifetime. Being supportive of a loved one is not something that has an end-date. Even if they can’t hear you the first six times you say it, one day your offer will mean everything to them.
Offer practical help
When the time comes, you can be a logistical helper, driver, distraction, or companion by going to visit a rehab center with them, giving rides to outpatient appointments, and listening to them share the process.
Call Roaring Brook Today to Learn about Helping a Loved One With Alcohol Addiction
If your care and concern has brought about a willingness in your loved one to learn more about alcohol addiction treatment, call Roaring Brook Recovery at 855.590.9944 or use our online contact form. We can invite you both for a visit, answer any and all questions, and provide you with the information and support needed to get started.