Having a loved one struggling with addiction can be extremely painful. You know they need help, but you may be hesitant to approach them about it. This may be due to fears you have surrounding how to approach the conversation or how it will affect your relationship with the individual. You may also be concerned that the person will become angry or defensive if you talk to them about it.

Regardless of the situation, it is still important to address the issue with your loved one. Although it may be a difficult conversation, it must be done. It may even be the push that the individual needs to finally get the help that they need.

Though it might be difficult, if you truly care about your loved one struggling with addiction, it is the right thing to do.

Reaching Out for Help for a Loved One Struggling With Addiction

It can help to know that you’re not alone in this and that you’re not the first person to go through this situation. Consider reaching out to local addiction specialists or therapists and sharing your situation. They can provide you with helpful resources and can prepare you to confront your loved one about their addiction. There are also support groups that you can find locally or attend virtually that are for family members of those struggling with addiction.

You can also reach out to other members of your family or friends whom you trust. They can offer a listening ear when you need to vent and may even join you when you approach your loved one or offer additional assistance. Having this support can make you feel less alone and more empowered to handle the difficult conversation that needs to be had.

Prepare for the Conversation Ahead of Time

One of the worst things that you can do is to have this conversation on impulse; it should involve thoughtful preparation. Think about where you’re going to be having the conversation. It should be somewhere private where the individual will feel comfortable and where you won’t be overheard.

You’ll want to be direct and affirm the fact that this individual has a problem that they need to take seriously. Then tell them how this problem has affected you personally. Encourage them to get help and guide them toward the resources they can turn to.

It’s important that you have gathered these resources ahead of time so you’ll be prepared to hand them over to your loved one right away. This involves looking into treatment facilities that are local to your loved one, gathering the proper contact information, and essentially making it as easy as possible for this individual to get the help they need. You may also look into insurance information, transportation, and other factors they will want to consider.

Having the Conversation About Addiction

When you feel prepared and confident enough to have this conversation, don’t back down. Choose your timing and situation wisely. Do not have it when the individual is distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This will likely not be a productive or meaningful conversation if they are.

Try to pick a time when the individual appears calm and willing to engage in a conversation with you. Make sure that you avoid getting overly emotional or raising your voice while talking to them, as this can lead to aggression and cause an argument. Be calm but also firm. Make sure that the individual knows that you are coming from a place of love and concern and not of judgment or ridicule.

Follow the aforementioned steps in terms of confronting them about the issue, sharing how it has affected you, and encouraging them to get help. After that, assure them that you will be there to support them along the way.

This support can look different depending on the situation. Maybe it involves driving your loved one to treatment or support group meetings. It could be holding them accountable as they start their recovery journey. It could also mean simply providing a listening ear during times when they are feeling low and need to vent.

Don’t Get Discouraged

It is a possibility that the conversation won’t go as you had hoped or planned. Maybe the individual became angry or defensive and walked away. Perhaps they denied having a problem at all. It’s also a possibility that they are not yet at a place where they realize that they need help or are willing to accept it.

If this is your situation, don’t feel discouraged or as if you did anything wrong. Simply try again in the future at a different time. Never give up on your loved one struggling with addiction, regardless of how frustrating or disheartening it can be. Finally, remember to take care of your own mental and physical health during this time, as such a situation can take a significant toll.

Having a loved one struggling with addiction can be an extremely stressful and emotional situation. It can be even more painful when the individual doesn’t want to get help. If you are in this situation, make sure that you reach out for help, whether from friends, family members, or a trained professional. Don’t feel as if you are alone in this. Many people have been in your shoes before and got help for their loved ones. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, The Kimberly Center is here to help. Call (855) 452-3683 today to learn more about the types of services that we provide. We will be happy to answer any of your questions.