Today, many people are struggling with issues related to substance abuse. If you have a loved one who is also dealing with these issues, you may be wondering how you can best support them and help them get through this difficult time.
Fortunately, it is not as challenging as you might think to help a loved one overcome drug and alcohol addiction. With the right support from substance abuse Lexington KY, your friend or family member can achieve sobriety once again. Here are some helpful suggestions on how you can offer your support and assistance with this challenging situation.
- Educate yourself about addiction
First and foremost, you should educate yourself about addiction and the challenges that your loved one will be facing during recovery. By knowing more about the process, you can better recognize when you need to step in and be of assistance.
- Help your loved one to feel less ashamed
By increasing your knowledge, you can better help your loved ones to understand the challenges they’ll be facing during the recovery process. This can be beneficial in a variety of different ways. First, it can help your loved one to feel less ashamed and more empowered to take the steps they need to move forward. It
- Be there whenever they need you
One of the most critical things you can do as a loved one is to simply be there for your friend or family member whenever they need you. This can be challenging, especially during moments of relapse or cravings, but it’s important to remain present and supportive of your loved one.
- Set your boundaries early
You should set your boundaries early on in the process. Make sure your friend or family member knows from the beginning that you are there to support them and help, but that you cannot if they are using substances. Let them know that you understand the temptation is there, but that you want to help them with substance abuse Lexington KY to get back to a healthy and happy life without drugs.
- Drive them to appointments
Let them know that you’re there to drive them to appointments or support group meetings, pick up clean syringes or other tools they may need, or do whatever else is in your power to help. By having a plan in place and being ready to step in and assist when necessary, you can help your loved one to feel less alone in the process.
- Set firm but loving boundaries
One of the most challenging aspects of supporting a loved one who is struggling with addiction is setting boundaries. You want to be present and supportive, but you also don’t want to enable your loved one to continue using substances. This can be difficult to navigate, but there are a few important things to keep in mind.
- Help your loved ones find the help they need
As you’re supporting and assisting your loved one, you may encounter moments when you need to help them find the right resources and assistance. You can help your loved one to find the resources they need from substance abuse Lexington KY.
