How To Cope with A Family Member or Friend Dealing With Substance Abuse

Don't become unaware of alcohol and drugs - the more you know about the reality of addiction the more informative you become in helping to work with a family member or friend who is wrestling with an addiction and helping him or her to recover. If you're not certain to the type of drugs someone is using, or whether he or she has an addiction; obtain the right education will provide you with clarity to certain behavior patterns or health issues that are associated with different types of substance addiction.

Safety is Your Priority

The fact that drugs and alcohol are mind altering and can sometimes cause erratic behaviors, there are many times when a person who is addicted can behave in ways that can be dangerous. Family members who experience these mood changes may feel embarrassed, frustrated; which can cause can isolation from the outside world. On some occasions, this isolation can allow for an unsafe environment when dealing with a person who is fighting addiction.

Your main priority is to put the safety and the well-being of your family first. If you're living with a person whose behavior puts your safety at risk, consider having a plan that will allow you to stay protected. Communicate with other family members, friends and your community to make them aware of your situation if such an emergency arise.

Addiction is a Disease

Without seeking professional help a person who is addicted to substance abuse is not able to handle the recovery of addiction alone. As much as you may think that you can help resolve the abuse- you can not stop a person who is addicted to change their behavior. It is important to know that like medically treating any disease, a specialist is needed, who is licensed and trained to provide treatment and therapy to create a healthier and more stable life. As a love one you must understand your boundary and to help your love one to seek at professional help they require and deserve.

Communicating With Someone Who Has Substance Abuse

It is natural to have an array of emotions when dealing with someone who is abusing drugs and/or alcohol. Feeling frustrated, angry, ashamed are all acceptable feelings! Never feel guilty by your thoughts, and more importantly, never feel as if you are alone. It is okay to feel the way that you feel. Your goal is to openly communicate your emotions, and sharing how the substance abuse makes you feel. Being honest about your feeling may allow the person who is dealing with substance abuse to openly express how they feel, and encourages them to communicate authentically and to seek treatment. In the beginning it may be overwhelming, but also may allow the person who his dealing with addiction to own up and face their problem. The most important thing is to listen and to have the willingness to share.