[Addiction Resources] Importance of Support from Friends and Family

Addiction has long been considered something that affects the whole family. That means the addict's and recovery's friends and family also need support.

Sometimes the addict's family and friends help facilitate the addict rather than helping the individual. Often times, instead of insisting that the addict go to therapy, the families try to ignore the problem and push the person away.

There are many different therapeutic approaches you can take when considering how to help a friend or family member recover in a place like the Palm Beach Institute.

Why is it so important to have supportive family and friends?

Whichever approach is best for your family, it is important to understand your family dynamics. If you don't take this into account, rehab may not work for your loved one. It's important to remember that addiction is powerful.

Most of the time, when a family is struggling with addiction, there is usually a problem with communication. This is usually the first starting point when working through a therapy. This is a positive investment in your family. It can help your family on the path of recovery and self-esteem.

In addition, after basic physiological needs and security needs, social needs are just as important. An addict has difficulty connecting socially even after he or she has recovered.

You may feel that you belong to a social group, but again you do not communicate. Only a well-known circle of friends can help them gradually overcome the situation and eventually gain self-confidence.

Things To Consider In Assisting An Addict During Recovery

There are a few things to consider as family and friends of an addict. If a member of your family is addicted, there are a few steps you should follow when trying to help that person.

You should not activate the addict's behavior by making excuses or covering up what he is doing while using the drug.
You cannot try to protect them from the consequences of their behavior.
You should not try to bribe, threaten, punish, or preach your family member. This will not help them recover from their addiction.
You don't want to be a martyr. You don't want to appeal to the addict's emotions. This can make the person feel guilty and force them to use more drugs.
You shouldn't take the addict's responsibility. While this can ensure that the things they are supposed to do get done, it doesn't solve the problem. Not only that, it can also make the person feel like they are not important or have lost their dignity.
Do not try to hide or throw away their drugs.
You shouldn't try to discuss things or argue with the person while they are high on drugs. This will not have a positive result.

After recovery, stay caring and involved

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The hard truth is that addiction is a chronic disease and there is no quick fix. It usually takes a long time to recover. If your loved one has successfully completed their inpatient or outpatient treatment, the healing process must continue after they return home.

Therefore, everyone in the family may need to adopt a healthy lifestyle to keep the person motivated. This often includes an alcohol-free or addiction-free environment.

After all, having a stable and healthy atmosphere at home will help him stay sober. As a result, there will be fewer chances of collapse after recovery.

Additionally, recovered patients can remain isolated to avoid embarrassment after they return home. Constant support and care from close friends and family can cheer them up and encourage sobriety. Undoubtedly, for a long recovery, wholehearted support from the closed is the most important need.

Find support for yourself

If your family member is on an outpatient program, they will continue to be in contact with you and may live in your home. You will see them work through their recovery. There are courses and programs that you can take alone and with your family member who is in recovery.

In addition, if your family member is on an inpatient program, they will be separated from you for an extended period of time. This gives you time to go through your own sessions and process any anger and bitterness you may feel due to your loved ones' actions while using the drug.

In addition, it is wonderful to help your loved one rebuild their life. But this trip can be stressful and exhausting at the same time. Especially if they relapse in the middle of or after recovery, family members shouldn't be disappointed. It is therefore advisable to join a self-help group or seek professional help.

last words

By acknowledging the factors, you will know how to support an addict. Constant support, love, and encouragement from family and friends are the only keys to getting well soon.

Guide loved ones to a healthy regime such as exercise, meditation, exercise, etc. Remember that addiction can be a family disease, but recovery is the whole family process.

About the author:

Erin Hogan, a former soccer coach and now full-time marketing manager at Buzzdrip, has been blogging and ghost blogging for the past five years. He loves traveling and hiking; Follow his Twitter account for recommendations for your next trip.

Helpful resources

The Palm Beach Institute

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