Where Can You Get Confidential Help for Families of Alcoholics?

How to Help a Family Member With an Alcohol Addiction

There is nothing as difficult as watching a family member, friend or colleague suffering from alcohol abuse. Even if you’re the victim or you just want to help, sometimes speaking out can be a challenge. If left untreated, alcoholism could lead to far more serious problems that could ruin families and relationships. Before you can think of getting confidential help for someone with an alcoholic disorder, there are some factors you should have in mind.

Learn About Alcoholism Disorder

You can’t try to help someone without knowing what they are going through. It is easy to judge from the outside but anyone could be susceptible to the condition. Alcoholism goes beyond the occasional drinking. There is a difference between using alcohol as a coping mechanism and being an alcoholic. People with the disorder rarely drink in moderation. Once they start drinking, they will only stop when they are incapable of functioning. There are several credible sources both government and non-profit organizations that provide education on the condition.

Rehearse What You’re Going to Say

It will be a good idea to practice what you’re going to say so that it is not misconstrued by the family member you’re trying to help. The statements should be encouraging and supportive. Try as much as possible to use the “I” statement to limit accusations. The statements should bring out specific concerns which show the victim the effects of the condition. Prepare for the different responses that you might expect from the victim.

Pick the Right Time

You don’t want to approach the victim when they’re not sober. Select a place that is quiet and has some privacy. You can lock the room to avoid interruption from other family members if you’re in the house. The person should not be occupied with other things when you’re having the conversation.

Be open and Empathetic

Hoping for a miracle won’t help your loved one. You need to be open about their condition without being harsh. You need to let them know that you’re concerned about their drinking problem. You should expect some resistance and negative reactions since it is a sensitive subject.

Most people suffering from alcoholism tend to be in denial. Some will try assuming the matter claiming they’re fine and don’t any help. Be firm and empathetic. You should let the person express themselves without interrupting.

Offer Support

You can’t force an adult to go for treatment however dire the situation might be. The best you can do is offer support which can be overwhelming sometimes. Since it is your family member, you should be sympathetic and nonjudgmental. Try putting yourself in a similar situation and how you’d react if your family was trying to tell you to sober up.

Alcoholics can be very persuasive. They will try to convince you that they’re quitting or reducing the intake. You can judge them by their actions. Always try to convince them to get formal help. You can try involving friends or other family members to see if they might help.

Intervene

This is usually seen as the last alternative. It should be used as a last resort if all the other means have failed. An intervention needs planning and preparation. You might involve other family members to also share their concerns.

This should be the logical course of action if the person is very resistant from getting help. It might be a good idea to involve a professional counselor in the intervention. The professional therapist will be able to offer advice on the condition, explain treatment options available, and recommend the best facilities to go to.

Understanding the Different Alcoholism Treatment Structures

There are some key treatment structures that are used when combating alcoholism. Each of the structures has their own unique advantages. The treatment option you go for will depend on the length of the abuse, level of comfort, privacy, and budget. The structures are:

  • Sober living
  • Alcohol detox
  • Outpatient alcohol treatment
  • Inpatient alcohol treatment

You’ve probably seen the inpatient treatment on TV since it is associated with celebrities. This treatment structure requires full time living in the facility.

Choosing the Best Treatment Option

This will depend on the severity of the addiction. You can choose the best option among the ones highlighted depending on the victim’s condition. The success of the treatment will hinge on the corporation of the victim. Getting help shouldn’t be something to get embarrassed about. We are here to give the help that you need for your loved one to get better. Ready to get started, Call us today at 772-266-5320.

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Essentials mission is to renew lives impacted by addiction through personalized and complete behavioral healthcare. Our main purpose is to provide services and education to the client and family that will support long lasting recovery of mind, body, and spirit.