Support is important for those recovering from substance abuse or addiction. Many people
want to help a loved one in their recovery, but don’t know how. In trying to be helpful, they can
inadvertently do the opposite. It’s important for loved ones to understand that recovery is a
family affair.
More than 20 million people, adults and adolescents, have a substance abuse or addiction
problem. That doesn’t count the family members that are collateral damage. Addiction doesn’t
care about a person’s wealth, religion or profession.
No Judgement
Anyone can develop a problem with drugs or alcohol. Addiction isn’t a moral issue or weakness
– it’s a brain disease. Let the loved one dealing with addiction know that they’re loved and that
they’re respected for they’re sobriety. However, its normal to feel disappointment if the
individual seems to lack motivation during their recovery journey.
Treatment
Recovery isn’t a one-and-done solution. It’s a lifelong process and every person’s pathway to
sustained sobriety and recovery is different. There’s no one “right” answer. Medication isn’t a
crutch, nor a replacement. Many individuals are prescribed medication as an important part of
their recovery. It can be effective in helping to reduce the potential for further incidents.
Home Environment
Few families truly understand the importance of creating a home environment conducive to
sobriety. Some even view it as a personal deprivation or inconvenience. Tempting someone by
keeping drugs or alcohol within easy reach is selfish and will sabotage their sobriety efforts.
Support and encourage healthy habits such as diet and exercise.
Family Care
Family members are an integral element in a person’s recovery plan. They can help the person
in treatment attain personal goals that aid in boosting mental and physical health. Those in
recovery will attend sobriety meetings and family members can provide support by going with
them or driving them to the meetings. Interacting with others that have dealt with addiction
second-hand can be extremely helpful, along with support groups, and family counseling
sessions.
Southcoast Psychiatric Services
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, feelings of hopelessness, relationship problems, or other pressures of life? Don’t suffer in silence. The doctors and therapists of Southcoast Psychiatric Services can help. Caring, compassionate, and completely confidential, our services are provided by highly-experienced, licensed, and board-certified healthcare professionals, dedicated to improving your health and wellness.
Whether you require medical treatment, counseling/psychotherapy, or both, we are happy to offer the best care available – at your convenience.
Call us anytime @ (561) 241-6628 Because you don’t have to suffer in silence.
