If someone that you care about has become addicted to drugs, it can be hard to know what to do. You are most probably wondering how you can help them and what the best way to go about broaching the subject is. Drug addiction is a very difficult thing to deal with for both the addict and the loved ones. But with patience, understanding, and love, addiction can be overcome.
The first thing that you need to know is that your loved one is not themselves right now. Drug addiction is a sickness, and it’s important to understand that. They aren’t in control of their actions anymore; their life is ruled by getting their fix. (Image Credit)
They may try to take advantage of you to prevent you from stopping their drug use; they may also attempt to trick you into giving them money. It’s sad to see someone that you love in this state, but try not to let it get to you. Instead, focus on helping them to get well again. It might not seem possible now, but with the right treatment, they’ll be back to their old self in no time at all.
Often, drug addicts are adamant that they don’t have a problem, and it can take a while to convince them that they do. While you don’t want to be harsh with them, being firm is important. No matter what excuses they use or what they say, don’t let them get around you.
If they don’t believe that they have a problem, present the evidence to them. Get people in the group to share experiences with them from when they have been on drugs, and what effect each situation has had. If, for example, you’ve been in a car with them after they have taken drugs and they ended up driving dangerously, tell them that. It might take a while for them to start to believe that they have a problem. Hopefully, if enough to you share your stories with them, they’ll realize that they need help.
Talk to them about getting help
Once your loved one had admitted that they have a problem, the next thing that you need to do is convince them to get help. At first, they may want to tackle the problem on their own, but it’s important that this isn’t the route they take.
It’s almost impossible for a drug addict to beat their addiction alone – professional help is crucial. While your relative may not be keen on the idea of getting professional help, it’s important that you convince them to. Explain to them that there are lots of options when it comes to beating their addiction, so they have lots of choice. From a stint in a rehab facility, like Sanford House, to therapy sessions, there are various forms of treatment.
Tell them that you will support them
Once you have convinced them to seek expert help for their addiction, it’s important that you explain that you will support them. Recovering from addiction is never easy, the person will need lots of love support. By telling them that you will be there to help them through their recovery, and you can make the process less scary for them.
Dealing with the drug addiction of a loved one is never going to be easy. However, if you follow the tips above, you can make it a little easier to deal with.
