When a loved one is suffering from addiction, you may feel as if everything in your world is out of control. Because addiction is a disease that affects those who suffer from it both physically and mentally, chances are that he or she also feels out of control. So, what should you do when you begin noticing signs of drug addiction in someone that you love? Depending on the severity of the problem, there are a number of courses of action, which you might take. Read on for a few ideas to help guide you in the right direction.
Rehab facilities are well suited to help addicts detox and begin living a sober lifestyle. They will also help patients transition back into normal life and connect them with NA meetings and a support system in their area. Try using the Drug Treatment Center Finder website to locate NY drug rehab centers, as well as others throughout the country.
Speak to Your Loved One
The first step toward recovery is acknowledging that there is a problem. If you sense that your loved one may be abusing drugs, approach him or her about it. They may be very receptive to your concern or they may react defensively. The most important thing to know is that you should approach the situation from a place of love and try not to act accusatory. Though these addition problems may be causing you pain, the most important thing to remember is that your loved one needs help.
Speaking one on one at first is usually a good place to start. This ensures that your loved one does not feel as if he or she is being aggressively confronted. Remind your loved one how much you care for them and why it is important to you that they acknowledge the problem and work toward recovery.
Look Into Narcotics Anonymous
After voicing your concerns to your loved one, try speaking with him or her about attending a Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meeting. This is an easy first step toward recovery for those who are willing to attend. Meetings are offered daily at thousands of locations throughout the Unites States and the world. NA uses the same 12 steps as Alcoholics Anonymous. While some meetings are closed (meaning that they are only for those who suffer from addiction), many locations also offer open meetings where a loved one can also attend to learn more about the process.
The great thing about NA is that there is a support system embedded in it. Those coming to meetings for the first time are introduced to the organization and its processes. They are provided with materials about NA’s philosophy toward recovery and given the opportunity to find a sponsor. A sponsor is someone who has been through the system and is there to ensure that a new member is accounted for and given the support that he or she needs to get sober and remain sober. The organization also recognizes milestones, celebrating its members’ sober anniversaries. This can be a great way for your loved one to see what they might be able to achieve if they stick to the program. If the person in your life who is suffering from addiction agrees, this is a great first step toward sobriety.
Seek the Help of a Professional Rehab Facility
While many addicts can begin a path toward sobriety in NA meetings, others might require more intensive treatment. This is particularly true if your loved one was dismissive or defensive when you spoke about his or her problem. Rehab facilities are also good options for those who have tried NA meetings but cannot seem to stay sober. Often those who cannot get sober on his or her own require the help of medical professionals for this process. Detoxing from the use of drugs or alcohol can be extremely dangerous and often requires hospitalization or constant supervision, which can be found using resources such as detoxlocal.com.
No matter what you decide to do, remember that you are not alone and there are a plethora of resources available to help both those who suffer from addiction, as well as those who love them.