There’s no denying that addiction recovery is a process that requires a strong foundation in trust, honesty, and love. Many addicts have lost their sense of self within the clutches of addiction and require professional help to rebuild their lives from the ground up. Successful recovery doesn’t just involve the addict making changes for themselves, but also those around them adapting to these changes too. This is especially the case when it comes to those closest to them.
Here are several ways you can help someone recover from substance abuse:
- Create an Addiction Recovery Plan
The first step when creating a plan for addiction recovery is to establish goals and expectations. While it’s impossible to predict exactly how rehab will affect the addict, they create a set of specific goals that they can work towards throughout their treatment program. These goals should be measurable and achievable during this period of time. They also need to be realistic given the individual’s current situation, treatment plan, and support network.
- Make Commitments
In order to create a successful plan, commitment from those involved is essential. If you’re working closely with someone that’s overcoming addiction, then they need to know that you’re going to be there for them. This is especially the case when it comes to attaining and maintaining sobriety outside of rehab. Sustained recovery requires a huge amount of support from friends and family, so make sure you’re able to commit as much time as possible.
- Stay Consistent
Consistency is a big factor when it comes to effective addiction recovery. The hardest part about the treatment is making the decision to get help, and oftentimes, addicts need constant reminders in order to keep them dedicated to their sobriety. Although there may be ups and downs, make sure you’re providing continuous support from start to finish.
- Be Open and Honest
When it comes to relationships, honesty is always the best policy. This is especially true when supporting someone through addiction recovery, because there may be times where they need to vent or are acting out of sorts. If you’re open with them about your feelings, then you’ll be able to work together as a team towards overcoming their substance abuse.
- Be Patient and Kind
It’s well known that addiction is a disease, so addicts need compassion and encouragement from those around them, not judgment and criticism. Be patient during all stages of recovery as their sobriety will be a work in progress for a long time. If you’re kind to them, then they’ll feel included within the family unit, which will also boost their self-esteem.
- Take Things Slow
When an addict’s substance abuse has become a way of life, it’s impossible for them to just cut ties with it overnight. Although you’ll want to help your loved one quit as soon as possible, the best approach is to take things slow and steady. If they seem to be struggling with withdrawal or coping without their drug of choice, then take things down a notch.
- Give Support and Encouragement
No matter how much someone wants to get better, it can be challenging when there are no resources available for support. Offer encouragement through all stages of addiction recovery by providing resources that help them maintain their sobriety, or make plans to visit an effective clinic like the Pinnacle Recovery Center.
- Communicate Openly and Often
Communication is vital for addiction recovery because it aids in the sharing of feelings, learning to trust each other again, and creating a connection that can help during difficult times. Although communication may be difficult due to any trust issues that have surfaced throughout the addiction, make genuine efforts to talk openly with your loved one.