Sometimes talking to a loved one about drug and alcohol addiction can be challenging, which unfortunately can cause you to avoid the conversation altogether. It is important to know, however, that those suffering from addiction need your love and support during this difficult time. They are counting on you, even if it may not seem like that in the moment. At The River Source, we understand how difficult addressing drug and alcohol addiction can be, so we gathered these tips to help you talk to and support your loved one.
- Have a Conversation
When you prepare to talk to your loved one about their addiction, you need to keep in mind what you plan to discuss with them. This should be a time for the two of you to have a mutual conversation, not argue with one another. Many times, people can let their emotions get the best of them, which can result in yelling and one-sided conversations. You need to remain calm when talking to your loved one and always remember that they truly need your love and guidance to get through this dark time in their life.
- Be a Good Listener
This goes hand-in-hand with having a productive conversation. While you need to explain your feelings and concerns, you should also take the time to listen to your loved one. It is important to listen to them in this moment in order to understand how they are feeling and how you can help. Sometimes this can be difficult because your loved one may not want to talk, but you need to ensure they know that you are here for them and want to support them in any way possible. It can take time for them to open up about struggles with drug and alcohol addiction, but patience is key, and you need to continue to tell them that you are always here to listen.
- Have a Positive Attitude
Your attitude will lay the foundation for the entire conversation. If you approach your loved one with a negative and condescending attitude, they will feel victimized and not want to have a conversation with you. However, if you show them your full support by having a positive and uplifting attitude, then your loved one will know that you truly care about them and are there to help.
- Choose a Good Location
When determining where to have the conversation, you need to keep in mind that privacy and safety are key. This is crucial to the comfort level and willingness of your loved one to have a conversation regarding their addiction. They will be more likely to be honest and open if they know they are in a secure and private setting. The perfect location for this could be either your home or theirs. If it is difficult to communicate with them, then this conversation could be moderated by a counselor in a neutral location. Regardless, pick a location that is comfortable to both you and your loved one.
- Be a Resource
Encourage your loved one to seek professional treatment with their addiction and assist them with finding that help. You can sit down with them and list out different options they have for addiction treatment and support them in determining the care that is right for them. By being a positive resource for them, you can make a lasting impact by helping them get the proper treatment they need. Also, constant encouragement and continued support are significant for your loved one throughout their recovery.
Always remember to be present with a positive attitude when having a conversation with your loved one about addiction. This is a time when your loved one is in need of support and encouragement to help them overcome addiction. While it may be difficult to have this conversation, it can be one of the most beneficial ones in their life and yours. For more about The River Source and addiction treatment, take a look at our blogs page for more helpful articles.
