Drug addiction is a horrible disease that affects more than just the addict. All too often the loved ones of the addict get helplessly dragged along for the ride. While the addict is spiraling out of control, they may be in denial about their problem. This often leaves the loved ones having to step in.
How to Talk to Someone About Their Drug Addiction
Confronting someone you love about a substance abuse problem is a touchy subject. You likely are grappling with what to say as well as how to even approach them about it. To help, our drug and alcohol treatment center near Scranton, PA is sharing some tips on how to talk to a drug addict about their addiction.
Stay Calm
The most important rule to follow when talking to a drug addict about their addiction is to stay calm. Because this is such a touchy subject and your addicted love one may lash out at you during the conversation, your emotions may be running high. Unfortunately, when your emotions take over, the conversation can quickly go south. Instead of indulging them, stay calm and do not yell.
Plan Ahead
Talking to an addict about their addiction is a tough conversation. In order to make it as successful as possible, you should plan ahead with what you want to say. If you try to wing it, your emotions can quickly take over or you may say something that you will regret.
Share Your Concerns
When confronting an addict, you also need to know what to say. A good tip on how to talk to a drug addict in denial specifically is to focus on your concerns for them. Remind them that you love them, and you are speaking up because you are worried about them. It is also a good idea to talk about how you want to support them in recovery. Now is not a good time to point fingers or name call.
Pick a Good Time
If you want to talk to a drug addict about their substance abuse and have it be successful, you need to choose an appropriate time. It is best to have this conversation with them when they are not drunk or high, otherwise they may not fully hear what you are saying.
Talk About Boundaries & Consequences
Actions speak louder than words. You may be enabling your loved one’s addiction without even realizing it. Take some time to examine the ways in which you might be part of the problem and come up with new boundaries that can minimize these behaviors. Clearly state these new rules to your addicted loved one as well as the consequences for breaking them. Most importantly, follow through.
Expect Pushback
Many people with substance use disorders are in denial. Because they are not willing to accept their problems, they will likely dismiss what you say. While this is frustrating, it is normal. Getting through to them may take time as well as the help of a professional.
Get Help
Unfortunately, the truth of the matter is that regardless of what tips you follow on how to talk to an addict, they may not listen. Instead of trying to break though on your own, it may be time to enlist the help of an intervention specialist or at least talk to an addiction rehab specialist about the next step. Not only do they have experience working with substance abuse but also because they are an outside party, they will not let their emotions get in the way.
It is not easy knowing how to talk to a drug addict about their addiction, but the conversation is a necessary one. Drug addiction is a dangerous disease that can be life-threatening. Doing nothing will only hurt your loved more.
At Clearbrook Treatment Centers, we understand that addiction isn’t easy for the addict or their loved ones. Along with offering treatment programs for the person in need, we also have a program for families of addicts in Laurel Run that helps everyone move forward, not just the addict. This program could help your entire family heal and find an addiction-free future.
Addiction is toxic. Call us today at 570-536-9621 to learn more about how we can help your loved one finally find sobriety.
