When a loved one has succumbs to addiction, a family is forced to watch them slowly fade into a hollowed version of themselves. Drugs and opiates have claimed the light in their eyes as addiction slowly began to take over their life.
Now, it’s time to approach them about getting help.
More than 24.6 million Americans suffer substance abuse, and 1.9 million of those people are living with opioid abuse or dependence. The sad truth is that of those numbers, very few get the treatment they need. If you have a loved one who suffers from addiction, don’t let them become a statistic.
However, you must take some caution when approaching the probem.
There are several right and wrong ways to go about urging someone into treatment. Although it can be emotionally taxing and down right difficult to talk about treatment, it is imperative to do so to save their life.
Here are some “do’s” and “don’ts” to keep in mind when you approach your loved one about addiction and treatment.
Do: Educate Yourself
Before you approach a loved one about addiction, it is important to educate yourself. Start by learning more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment methods so you know how best to handle the situation. You can also contact local drug rehab centers for more information. A rehab facility’s experts are experienced, trusted sources who can provide insight on how best to deal with an addict.
Don’t: Go in without a plan.
Many people like to hold interventions to approach someone with a heroin or opioid addiction. If you choose to go this route, make sure you have a clear plan to administer an effective intervention with concerned friends and family members. Even if an intervention is well intentioned, a lack of planning might end in a chaotic, counter-productive meeting.
Do: Stick to the facts.
It’s easy to let emotions overtake you when approaching a loved one suffering from addiction. Although you want to express genuine concern, you also want to stick to the facts. Tell them how addiction is impacting both themselves and their friends and family. Explain how opioid dependence treatment centers can truly help them get their life back on track. Talk about the cold, hard facts and the fatal effects of drugs: in 2013, drug overdose was the leading cause of in injury death. Share with them that they are not alone in this battle, but that they need to get help before it is too late.
Don’t: Be judgmental.
The last thing you want is for your loved one to feel attacked or judged. You may not agree with all of their life choices that have led them up to this point, but the past is in the past. Now, you must work towards a healthier future. When you approach them, it is not the time to bring up all of their past mistakes. It is time to begin the road to recovery. Try to avoid a judgmental tone that blames the addict. Instead, stay focused on expressing why treatment centers are the best option moving forward.
Do: Get them to treatment immediately.
Once you’ve effectively expressed all of your concerns and your loved one has agreed to accept treatment, you’ll need to get them there immediately. Do not give them time to change their mind or turn to drugs “one last time” before they go.
The bottom line is to get your loved one into a professional rehabilitation center. Take the steps to get them the treatment they need as soon as possible. Most importantly, make sure they feel supported and loved as they begin this new chapter in their life.