Helping a loved one who’s struggling with drug addiction is often a long and challenging journey. It can be overwhelming at times that it feels easier to just give up. But sweeping the issue under the rug will only exacerbate the problem as the person continues to spiral down and lose control over their destructive habits. As hard as it may be, it’s important that you take the time to provide your loved one with the help they need. There is hope for a drug addict to change their ways and it all starts with having a strong support system by their side.
If you have a friend or family member who’s struggling with drug abuse, here is how you can offer your help and give them the support they need to start their journey to recovery.
Understanding drug addiction
People use drugs for many reasons. Some use it for recreational purposes, while others use it to cope with feelings of loneliness and pain. Drug use doesn’t immediately lead into addiction, but over time it can develop into an uncontrollable urge that goes from casual to problematic. When it becomes a full-blown addiction, it may impact the person’s relationships, employment, as well as their physical and mental state.
Drug addiction is when the person has become completely dependent on drugs. They cannot function properly if their cravings aren’t satisfied and they’ll do everything in their power to acquire them. When they attempt to stop their drug use, they experience withdrawal symptoms and they become physically ill.
Signs and symptoms of drug addiction
While it can be difficult to pinpoint a casual drug user, there are many immediate signs that a person is addicted to drugs. The changes are quite noticeable in both their appearance and behaviour, but may vary depending on which drugs they use. Some of the telltale signs of drug addiction are:
- Sudden behavioural changes.
- Abrupt mood swings.
- Avoiding social interactions.
- Becoming emotionally distant.
- Glassy or red eyes.
- Lack of energy.
- Negligence in personal hygiene and grooming.
- Financial struggles.
- Loss of interest in previous hobbies.
How to help your loved one who struggles with drug addiction
Helping a loved one who suffers from drug abuse may seem like a monumental task, but with the right approach and attitude, you can help them recover from their addiction. Here are some suggestions that you can use to help someone who struggles with drugs.
1. Be educated about drugs and addiction.
It can be easy to miss the signs of addiction if you’re uneducated about the problem. Take the time to gather information about drugs and addiction in general to get a better understanding of how to help your loved one. The more you know about the disease and how it affects them, the more you’ll become aware that your loved one needs help.
2. Provide unwavering support.
Your support plays a huge role in helping drug addicts recognise their problem. Don’t wait for them to hit rock bottom before you offer your support. Talk to your loved ones about your concerns and let them know you’re always there to offer a helping hand. A strong support system is what a drug addict needs. Knowing that someone is there to walk with them on their journey to recovery can help convince them to give up their habits and live a sober lifestyle.
3. Encourage them to reach out for help.
As with any disease, drug addiction requires professional treatment to fully remedy the problem. Positive encouragement can go a long way towards helping your loved one undergo rehabilitation. They may reject the idea at first, but be patient and remind them that you’re there to accompany them throughout the entire process. It is important for them to recognize that a professional such as a drug rehab center in Bali.
4. Be committed throughout their journey to recovery.
From the moment they undergo treatment to the day they finally complete it, it’s important that you’re committed to helping your loved one get back on the right track. Life after rehabilitation can be difficult at first as they may suffer from a relapse, but it’s one step closer for them to live a sober lifestyle. The most important thing is you’re consistent with showing your love, care, and support to your loved one.
5. Don’t forget to take care of yourself.
It takes huge amounts of effort, patience, and dedication to helping a loved one recover from drug addiction. That being said, don’t forget to care for yourself and meet your needs first. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and you’re maintaining healthy habits in terms of your diet and lifestyle. After all, you won’t be able to provide the support your loved ones need if you can’t support yourself first.
These suggestions can help you and your loved one navigate easier through the twists and turns that come with drug rehabilitation. Helping someone overcome their destructive habits is not easy, but with the right strategy and approach, you can help set them up for long-term success.