The topic of addiction is one that numerous families find themselves having to discuss. However, these conversations can feel uncomfortable and awkward. Still, though, talking about addiction is typically a critical part of resolving the issue. Whether you want to open up to your family about your own addiction or your desire to help a loved one, use some strategies for starting these important conversations.
Talking to Relatives about Your Addiction
Speaking to family members about your own addiction can feel overwhelming, but doing so is actually a way to gain strength and support from loved ones. Also, your relatives will likely feel relieved to know that you’re planning to seek help. You can try the following strategies:
- plan a meeting
- be direct
- apologize
- state your intentions
Plan a Meeting
In some situations, planning a scheduled meeting to tell family members about the addiction is best. Doing so can give you the time to think about what exactly you want to say. Further, you can work to ensure that all of your closest relatives are there. You might feel anxiety leading up to the meeting, which is normal. Keep in mind that loved ones may already have a sense of why you’ve asked to meet.
Be Direct
Trying to talk about the issue is likely going to make the conversation even more difficult. Directly state why you have asked to speak to your relatives. Let them know what type of addiction you’re struggling with, how long you’ve been experiencing this problem, and any other pertinent information.
Apologize
Know when apologizing is appropriate. Your addiction has potentially hurt your family members in some ways. For example, maybe you borrowed money without ever paying those funds back, or perhaps you missed important family events. While you don’t need to carry on and plead for forgiveness, you should simply apologize.
State Your Intentions
Family members are likely going to want to know what your next move is. Now that you have recognized your addiction, you should have a plan of action. Let relatives know that you have already enrolled in a treatment program or that you are going to call a representative at a facility immediately after the meeting has ended.
Talking to Relatives About Their Addiction
An equally important conversation is the one you have with relatives about their own addictions. Some of the strategies to use are similar to the ones you would employ if having a conversation about your own addiction.
Set a Time to Directly Talk
When you ask to meet, your loved one might have an idea of what the conversation is going to be about. Letting too much time go by between the request for a discussion and the conversation is not the best idea. You want to ensure that your loved one shows up. When you do meet, let your loved one know what your concerns are. A smart idea is to enlist the help of other relatives or friends to participate in the conversation.
Have a Plan
Convincing your loved one to attend a treatment program is important. You can conduct research on treatment facilities ahead of the conversation so that you can bring along brochures for these centers. Provide contact information so that your loved one can speak to a representative.
Get Professional Support
You can also ask a counselor or other team member to assist you with this conversation. The level of assistance available can vary. For example, the staff member might come to the meeting with you, or this individual may provide strategies that could be helpful for your loved one’s specific struggles. In any case, recognize that you don’t have to navigate this situation alone. The idea of talking to your family about addiction might seem intimidating at first. However, these conversations are important to have. Your family can be a great source of support, and you can help your relatives to succeed in life. Remember that you don’t need to navigate these situations by yourself. Call 772-266-5320 to speak with an informed representative today.
