Drug use is on the rise. In fact, about 23.5 million Americans are addicted to alcohol or drugs.
That’s about one in every 10 Americans over the age of 12. Unfortunately, only 11% of those with an addiction receive help. About 20 million Americans never receive treatment.
With the right addiction information, you can help a loved one who is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction. Becoming their support system can ensure they receive the help they need.
Here are five tips that can help you help them. With this addiction information, you can equip yourself for the road ahead. Read on to learn more.
1. Educate Yourself
First, take the time to educate yourself by gathering as much addiction information as possible. If you know what substance your loved one uses, start there.
Take the time to learn about the signs of a drug or alcohol addiction, including:
- A lack of concern about personal hygiene
- Bloodshot eyes
- Frequent bloody noses
- Changes in personality
- Changes in behavior
- Irritability
- Changes in friends and activities
- Unusual need for money or financial problems
- A change in daily routines
- Slurred speech, shakes, and tremors
Your loved one might start neglecting responsibilities like work and school, too.
If these signs of alcohol or drug addiction sound familiar, move onto the next step.
2. Communicate With Them
Take the time to communicate with your loved one. Help them recognize how their addiction is affecting their life. They might not realize their drug or alcohol use has become a problem.
Try to avoid:
- Nagging, criticizing, or lecturing
- Yelling or name-calling
- Exaggerating
- Engaging in addictive behavior yourself
Instead, try to remain calm. Help your loved one recognize they need addiction recovery support.
3. Identify Treatment Options
As you talk with your loved one, help them review their treatment options.
For example, you can recommend different drug and alcohol rehab centers in the area. Offer to help them find the right center based on their unique needs. For example, they might need to find a rehab that offers dual diagnosis treatment.
There are now over 15,000 treatment facilities across the country. Help them make the choice to ensure they receive the proper care.
4. Get Support
As you help your loved one through this process, it’s important to help yourself as well.
Consider joining a support group for other people in your position. They can help you find helpful tools and resources. Building a support system will ensure you receive help through this process, too.
5. Avoid Enabling
As you work through these tips, it’s important to avoid enabling your loved one.
Some people can’t see the impact their addiction is having on their lives until they hit rock bottom. Avoid offering money (which they might use to finance their addiction).
Instead, help your loved one find the real support they need.
Addiction Information: 5 Tips for Helping Someone Through Addiction Recovery
Gathering addiction information can help you offer your loved one support. With these tips, you can help your loved one through their addiction recovery.
Remember to seek help for yourself along the way.
Searching for more tips and tricks? You’re in the right place.
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