Drug abuse is a global issue, impacting cities and communities and disrupting peace and development. We all heard of murders and other crimes committed as a result of drug warfare and use. We also have celebrities and prominent politicians who have fallen to this.
But drug abuse is not just a mainstream issue. It is a dire case affecting a friend, a family member, a co-worker, a classmate, or a relative. Despite the rampant campaign on drug awareness, more and more people are resorting to drug abuse. That reflects the kind of society we have today. And while the authorities do their part to address the situation, we, as individuals, can also make a difference.
So if you know of someone struggling with drug abuse, here are some practical ways from intensive outpatient program in sugarland to help someone cope with drug addiction.
Be an Accountable Someone
A lot of studies show that drug abuse, like any other form of addiction, roots from unmet emotional needs. Because a person never received parental love or has undergone severe bullying, for instance, he/she resorts to drugs to ease the pain. Drug abuse becomes a coping mechanism, and eventually, it becomes an addiction.
If you are close to that person, you can start by simply providing emotional support. You don’t have to get attached. Just offer a listening ear without judgments or immediate assumptions. Be genuine and sincere. In that way, the person will feel that he is not alone in his struggle. That will give him the boost to decide to stop and overcome drug addiction.
Know That it’s Not Easy
Don’t expect that by providing emotional support, you’ll finally solve the person’s drug addiction. It takes time. Expect also that there will be a lot of restraints, obstacles, and relapses.
But of course, don’t put your hopes down. Recognize that yes, it’s not going to be easy, but its healing can be achieved in due time.
You also have to keep in mind that that person drowning in addiction is the same person you care for. That is why it’s important to always bear with patience and understanding. Don’t take that situation to drive you emotionally. Instead, you should resolve to uphold a positive mood.
Recognize That You Can’t Do it All By Yourself
Drug abuse disorders are mental health issues which entail professional attention. That is why don’t ever think that you alone can solve the problem. You need to consult with clinical experts since technical operations are often required. Clinical experts could also provide vital counseling sessions to understand the root cause of the problem. In that way, they could recommend appropriate solutions. Without such supervision, things could even get worse.
Thankfully, there are many facilities or centers out there, which provide the needed clinical support for those struggling with drug addiction. Just as the person needs a dedicated family member or loved one, he also needs a committed and persevering clinical expert to give constant monitoring and support.
Refrain From Enabling Behavior
There is a big difference between supportive and enabling behavior. Sometimes, we don’t see that the support we give is letting in the person’s addiction. That is why we need to take caution and clarity on how we are going to be of help.
But first, it is crucial, to be frank about your feelings, needs, and boundaries. You should also be honest about what you intend and hope for the person. Tell him that you are going to show support. Be honest that there are certain limitations that you cannot offer. And these limitations are intended to avoid enabling behavior.
Yes, sometimes, we get emotionally attached to the person’s condition that we forget that boundaries have to be set. For example, you might consider giving him finances for he might be drawn to buying drugs. Sometimes, limiting what you can provide can be the support he needs.
Take Immediate Actions Upon Realizing It
In many cases, a person vehemently denies his addiction to drugs. Even worse, family or friends would not even admit it. It’s so convenient and easy to neglect the early signs of drug addiction. But this can mean the loss of opportunities for the early recovery of the person. It could even lead to worse physical, psychological, emotional, and mental damage. The longer the person is given attention and appropriate actions, the more his indulgence grows and becomes harder to cure.
So instead of backing out because of barriers, work your way through them.
Be Wary to Avoid Codependency
Codependency can often occur, complicating relationships in the sphere of drug addiction. As you go on supporting a drug addict, your perspectives, your interests, and your view of what is happening can become distorted. You sometimes become disillusioned, especially frustrations and difficulties, creep.
“It becomes the dysfunctional side of caring that gets people locked into being over-responsible and losing touch with their authentic selves,” stressed Alan Massey, a renowned addiction specialist.
It is imperative to define clear boundaries and enabling behaviors to avoid codependency. It is even more important to seek help from addiction specialists who can help advise on proper and fresh methodologies and the better options you should take.
Fortunately, other people or groups can give support, not just you. Seek help from them. Rehabilitation centers, such as the intensive outpatient program in sugarland, can provide crucial and long-term support and transformation. It is helpful not just for yourself but for everybody that you also take care of your physical, emotional, and mental health.
So, that’s it! Those are just some of the practical ways you can take to help loved one cope and overcome drug addiction. But then again, you should not do that alone. Be part of a group working together.
Author Court Nichols
Court is the program director for detox and addiction rehab treatment facilities. He helps others focus on a lifestyle of sober living with a healthy diet and exercises and many other mental and physical health habits.