Tips to Help and Support a Recovering Addict or Alcoholic

If you have a loved one who is recovering from addiction, you are very likely wondering what you can do to care for and help a recovering addict. There are many factors involved in the process of a successful recovery, but the support and help of loved ones can have a powerful positive impact on the recovery process. There are three basic steps a loved one can take to help a recovering alcoholic or addict. The first is self-care. Loved ones are going to be affected by the pain and grief caused by addiction and should remember to see to their own health and needs throughout the process. The second is to talk about their struggles and ask questions of others who are supportive figures or knowledgeable and experienced with dealing with addiction. The third step is to become as educated about addiction as possible.

Loved ones should keep in mind that when it comes to addiction, they can intervene, but they cannot force a person to quit or do the work of recovery for them. They should also never accept behavior from a loved one that is dangerous or uncomfortable or violates boundaries. Your safety should come before your wish to support a recovering addict.

These behaviors form the foundation of how to help a recovering addict. There are more specific tips that might also be applicable to certain individuals and situations. Empathy and patience are great qualities to display when attempting to support a recovering alcoholic or addict. You can do this by asking open-ended questions such as, “How are you? I haven’t seen you in a while.” This allows the person to give as much information about rehab and their recovery as they are comfortable offering. You can tell a person that you respect and admire their decision to go to rehab and offer your support. You might ask a person recovering from addiction to take a walk with you during a party or social situation that might trigger relapse and anxiety. And of course, a loved one can ask directly what they can do to help a recovering addict.

Approaching a Loved One With an Addiction

If you are in the process of convincing a loved one to go to rehab, there are similar steps you can take to the ones used in attempting to help a recovering alcoholic or addict. The approach should be planned and should not be attempted alone. Those who help with the intervention should be able to limit what they say to what’s been planned, state their feelings without blame, and not to use verbal attacks. It’s best to have a prearranged location for treatment chosen before the intervention begins. If your loved one agrees to accept treatment, bring them as soon as possible, before they have a chance to rethink their decision.

Recovering at WhiteSands Treatment Center

WhiteSands Treatment Center is a safe, high-quality rehabilitation center that offers comfortable, successful addiction recovery programs. There are many options for therapy, and our clients will be able to participate in a customized recovery program that includes a safe, supervised detox. Our highly experienced staff is also equipped to treat clients with a dual diagnosis. We can also offer you advice on how to help a recovering addict. Call today or fill out the form to contact White Sands and get help today.