If you have a loved one who’s struggling with addiction, you know it can be tough to know what to do when they won’t get help. As much as we all want our family and friends to live their best lives, it’s hard not to experience some resentment or anger when they hurt themselves with drugs or alcohol. It’s so important to remember that you can’t force someone to get help. One of the most common mistakes friends and family make is trying to “rescue” an addict from their addiction—particularly when they don’t want help. This sets up a terrible dynamic between your loved one and yourself, making it much harder for them to come around and seek the help they need. In this article, we will discuss ways you can help an addict when they may not want help.
Ways to Help an Addict When They May Not Want Help
Be Supportive, But Not Pushy
One of the best ways you can help an addict is to be understanding and supportive when they are going through a tough time. This can include: Letting them visit with friends or go to meetings without harassment. You don’t need to nag people who are in recovery! Letting them know you support their decision and will be around when they do decide to get help.
Ask Them if They’re Okay
One of the most important things you can do for an addict when they may not want help is to ask them if they’re okay. If you find yourself worried about their health or well-being, know that addicts can spend hours every day just thinking about how much pain and suffering they are in. By asking them how they are, you’re letting them know that you care and will be there if they need you.
Keep the Lines of Communication Open, But Don’t Give Them Advice
One of the best ways to help an addict who may not want help is to make sure you are always available when they do want to talk. If your loved one comes to you and feels like opening up about their addiction, know that this is a very big step. Let them know that you are open to listening but don’t offer any advice or judgment. There are some things you can say to show you care, though: “I know it must be hard to see those friends and family members of yours in such a rough place. If you want to talk, I’m here.” “It must be difficult having to walk away from the people you care about on a daily basis. If you ever want someone to listen to what’s going on in your head, I’m here for you.”
Remind Them That There Are Consequences for Their Actions
If your loved one is suffering from addiction, it’s important to remember that it’s a disease of consequences. While you can’t force your loved one to stop using, you can remind them that they are always in control of their actions and how they will be treated. Withdrawing love and support is a healthy response to behaviors that endanger the health or well-being of loved ones.
Let Them Know That It Can Get Better
Although addiction is a serious condition, it is not permanent. While there may be some recovery in their future, your loved one may still have good days and bad days. Remind them that they can get better, and remind them of the things they have accomplished in recovery so far.
Get Involved in Addiction Advocacy
There are a number of advocacy groups working to help fight addiction and bring more treatment to the community. If you have a loved one with an addiction, it’s important to check out these support groups and see how you can help them fight for the rights of addicts and people who struggle with substance abuse.
Don’t Let Their Behavior Make You Sick
One of the biggest struggles for friends and family members can be trying to balance your love for someone with their destructive behaviors. While addiction can be extremely painful to watch and cope with, it is important not to let their actions make you sick. The best way to deal with this is by reminding yourself that addiction is a disease that affects everyone, even your loved ones. At the same time, it’s important to acknowledge how much suffering your loved one is going through. If you are struggling with a loved one who won’t get help, know that you are not alone. We’re here to help. Contact us today for more information about our holistic approach to treating addiction. Our 24-hour hotline is always available at 772-266-5320.
