Watching a loved one struggle with alcohol and/or drug addiction can negatively affect family members who have constantly tried to offer help. Even if their loved one finally agrees to get professional help and remain sober, relapse is still possible after completing treatment programs. Although the history of drug use can strain a family’s connection, it’s important that families understand how to appropriately support their loved one during their life-long recovery process. There are a few tips that families can utilize to assist with their loved one’s abstinence.
Tips for Supporting a Recovering Addict
- TIP #1: The first tip is for families to realize that there will still be unresolved problems after their loved one completes their alternative treatment program. For example, during the time of their loved one’s addiction, it’s possible that they experienced financial challenges, health complications, and relationship issues. Addressing these problems can be done although it will take tremendous effort and patience. Families can help their loved ones find a suitable financial adviser that will assist them with their short-term and long-term financial goals. Families should also encourage their loved ones to maintain regular checkups with a doctor. Lastly, families should attend a family-based therapy program to learn how to practice honest communication between one another.
- TIP #2: In order to assist their loved ones to continue their treatment at home, family members need to stay educated about addiction and involved in their loved one’s recovery journey. Discovery Place can provide educational options for family members at their alternative treatment centers. Usually, there are family programs that provide information about how addiction works and tools to help themselves and their loved ones deal with stress. Attending these programs is an excellent way for families to restore a healthy connection with their loved ones. These programs will also teach family members effective intervention skills to use at home should a triggering situation arise.
- TIP #3: Families should learn how to support their loved one’s recovery process by maintaining a sober living environment. It is very important that families keep their loved ones away from temptations and triggers, especially during the first year of recovery. This may be difficult, especially if families are known for having alcohol available at social gatherings. The entire family may have to make a lifestyle change in order to prevent their loved ones from relapsing.
- TIP #4: Families should encourage their loved ones to take up healthy new hobbies, such as bike riding, hiking, painting, taking a new class, reading, volunteering, visiting free or low-cost museums, watching movies or plays, and other healthy activities. Helping a loved one become more involved in new activities will help them expand their interests and practice a healthier lifestyle and new hobbies.
These are a few tips that families can practice to support their loved one’s recovery process. Family support is one of the most essential factors in helping maintain sobriety. If you suspect that your loved one may be suffering from substance abuse disorder, it’s best to have a healthy intervention and discuss treatment options.
Alternative Treatment Options in Tennessee
If you are located near Burns, Tennessee, contact Discovery Place for a free consultation if your loved one is suffering from addiction. We offer alternative treatment programs to meet the needs of our patients. For example, we offer a 30-Day Alternative Residential Addiction Recovery Program and a Long-Term Alternative Addiction Recovery Program. If you would like more information about our alternative treatment center, call us at (800) 725-0922.
