The Bold Step of Helping Someone with Addiction Problem |
Posted: April 28, 2017 |
For many individuals struggling with substance abuse, the hardest step toward sobriety is the first one- committing to make a change. They feel uncertain about whether they are ready to make the change or if they possess what it takes to pull out. At this point, the many people they can turn to for guidance, reassurance, a listening ear, and encouragement, the better their chances of recovery. This is where you can come in as a family member or friend, to walk with them in their journey towards sobriety. How do you tell if someone is suffering from Drug Addiction?People who use drugs often show signs of substance abuse in various aspects of their lives. Although symptoms vary depending on the individual and the substance used, standard substance abuse symptoms include:
You can also get information on different substances and their effects on the Department of Health and Ageing website. What you should know before talking to your loved onePeople who abuse drugs tend to get angry more easily. Before you talk to a loved one about the available treatment options, it is important to approach him/her concerning the drug problem. Make sure you tackle the situation with care so that you don't cause an argument. It's okay to be afraid to confront your loved one concerning substance abuse because you don't know how he/she will react. But, realize that overcoming your apprehensions and working towards finding the help that he/she needs could be a life-changing effort on your part. Various addiction recovery centers exist to suit the specific requirements of every individual. How to help themEven when someone realizes they have a drug addiction problem, it may be difficult for them to decide to change their situation. Try to be patient! Remember if the person is not ready to seek help, there is nothing much you can do. But, if the individual is willing to change, be there, with compassion, love, and a strong commitment to stand with him/her in whatever way possible, to support his recovery. Until then, your support is limited to trying to minimize the impact that the drug has on the person and others around him/her. When a person has decided to seek help for their drug addiction, they may become anxious about what to expect. You can support them by being understanding about their fears; encourage them towards the path they have decided to take. For most people battling with drug addiction, deciding to take action against their drug abuse is just the start, but, maintaining the changes made is the most difficult part. A person might relapse immediately he/she comes out of a drug rehab center. Recognizing their triggers and trying to avoid them could help. If your loved one lapses back into drug abuse, you can encourage them by, for instance, keeping in contact with the local support services. Help for the carerCaring for someone with an addiction problem can be stressful. You will feel depressed, anxious, or ashamed. It does help to realize that you are not alone! Talking to other people in the same situation might be helpful. Other than the local carers' support groups, there are online forums that provide an opportunity for the carers to share their experiences. You can get information, counseling services, or contacts by visiting the National Drugs Campaign website and Carer Gateway. ConclusionHelp is available for individuals with an addiction problem. However, it is paramount to realize that your loved one will only ask for help when they're ready. Also note that other than doctors and psychologists, many counselors, social workers, and clergymen offer addiction treatment services.
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