Substance abuse troubles not only the addict but also their loved ones. Moreover, an addict in denial can further worsen the situation. They may not encounter any significant problems in their addiction, making the idea of rehab more challenging. They would resist the idea of sobriety and find consuming drugs or alcohol more comfortable.
If your loved one is struggling with addiction and rejecting the recovery treatment, the following are a few things you should do:
- Do not force them- Your loved one may not experience any major symptoms due to which they might not accept their addiction to substance abuse. Therefore, stopping them from consuming drugs and alcohol can be challenging. However, it does not mean that you force the idea of rehab on them. Instead, discuss the medical detox solutions with them and educate them about their cost, rehab benefits, and scholarship information. Remember to be non-judgmental while talking to them.
- Do not feel responsible or guilty- If your child is a drug addict, you may blame yourself for their situation and may feel guilty seeing addiction destroying your loved one’s life. Furthermore, if the addict passes the blame on you, you are bound to feel more responsible for their state. However, you should understand that addiction comes in many complex layers and is not your fault.
- Intervention- Interventions can help your loved one realize the impact of their addiction and be accountable for their actions. You can choose a location to hold the intervention. Remember to plan the topics you wish to discuss. Do not use guilt or anger so that your loved one feels safe.
- Establish firm boundaries- When your loved one is fighting addiction, you should remain firm and strong to provide them with the required emotional and physical support. They may ask you for money to support their addiction habits, and witnessing them battling withdrawal symptoms may tempt you to give them money. Your enabling behavior will only make the addiction worse. Learn to say no; keep firm boundaries, and do not make excuses for their behavior.
- Learn more about the addiction effects- If you want to understand your loved one, learn about the impact of addiction. Educate yourself about the number of people affected by addiction and the motivating factor behind it. It will give you a new perspective on their addiction.
- Explain the benefits of addiction treatment- Educate your loved one about the benefits of addiction treatment and the value of inpatient and outpatient facilities. It will provide them with a sense of security and direct them in the right direction. It will also make them aware of the various treatment options and motivate them to consider them.
- Encourage communication, connection, and community- Connecting with a loved one struggling with addiction can be difficult. However, you should still try it as they may have isolated themselves and need a connection from you. Listening to them and offering them support can help you establish and foster strong relationships.
Open communication can also help you bridge the gap between you and the addict. Make sure you deal with them compassionately- do not judge, criticize or control them. While communicating, you should listen, connect and empathize with them. Try to build a community through support groups for like-minded people facing addiction.
About Steps Recovery Centers
It can be very exhausting to see an addict rejecting treatment. However, it is most likely to happen as they may not see themselves at fault. You should enroll them in a rehab center like Steps Recovery Centers. We are a team of skilled and experienced medical professionals known for our efficiency. For more information about us, contact us at 801-800-8142.
