Watching a loved one struggle with addiction or substance use can be a heartbreaking journey. You may feel helpless and incapable of protecting a friend or family member from continuing to hurt themselves.
Every journey is different, and no one can predict the course. When it takes months or years of suffering before your loved one is able to complete a treatment program successfully, everyone suffers. When they complete that milestone, your joy and relief will be tremendous, but you can’t just assume addiction is now in their rearview mirror. Supporting them post-rehab and beyond is critical to their continued recovery. Understand how you can help them stay on the right path and keep moving forward in a healthy way.
Use the Right Words
The old saying “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” should probably be updated, because using labels that feel judgmental and negative can absolutely do damage.
Instead of calling someone an “addict,” refer to their situation as “someone in recovery” or “a person with a substance use disorder.” Avoid reinforcing the stigma that is still associated with addiction to help your loved one feel less alienated and disconnected from their community.
Be There to Listen
Healthy habits learned in rehab or treatment programs may include open discussions about feelings and behaviors. Encourage conversation and be there to listen to help foster communication skills and their ability to express emotions in a healthy way – both the positive and the negative.
Having a supportive community is a huge part of a successful recovery. Positive reinforcement can be delivered in subtle ways, like taking a walk while having a chat or stopping by just to say hello.
Model Behaviors
One of the hardest parts of recovery is learning how to navigate certain situations without the crutch of substances. Be sensitive to what your loved one is going through and try not to drink or use other substances in front of them – especially early in their recovery.
Commit to healthier ways to interact and spend time, like exercising together or having a meal. Try not to create stressful situations that could trigger a slip or a relapse.
Patience is a Virtue
Recovery can be a life-long process, and there are bound to be a few missteps along the way. Show patience and understand that your loved one is accomplishing a great feat by leaving an old life in the past and building a new one for the future. That takes time and effort.
If your patience is wearing thin, remove yourself from a situation rather than saying or doing something you’ll regret. If relapse happens, try to stay positive and keep supporting your loved one. They need it.
Know the Signs of Relapse
Relapses can and will happen, but it’s not the end of the road, just a detour. While the recovering person takes responsibility for their recovery, it can still be helpful to recognize the signs of an impending relapse, so you can be aware and if necessary, help recommend help.
- Reliving the “old days” of substance use and thinking about them in a positive way
- Reconnecting with people or visiting places associated with prior use
- Sudden changes in behavior or moods
- Refraining from attending required meetings or recovery events
- Doubting the effectiveness of the recovery process
Reach Out for Help if Needed
Whether you need support for a loved one or your own mental health, MindGlow Health offers talk therapy and psychiatric care through online appointments with licensed providers who are experienced and passionate about what they do. The company was built on the foundation of a well-established behavioral health organization, where thousands of people nationwide have sought care for their mental health concerns.
Learn more about the services we provide or get started today with one of our experienced, passionate online providers to take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.
