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10 ways to help someone overcome alcohol addiction

Living

While the addict is the only person who can stop their own alcohol use, loved ones can still take certain steps to try and curb addictive behaviors. Here are some tips from, The Recovery Village, a network of rehabilitation facilities

1. Open the lines of communication The person you are concerned about is never going to know you’re concerned unless you voice that. Bring attention to a loved one’s drinking, and hope they can understand where your concern is coming from.

2. Make them comfortable to talk about what underlying cause contributes to their drinking Very rarely do people drink simply to drink. Often they struggle with depression or anxiety, and drink as a way to self-medicate. It is important to acknowledge that you think there may be an underlying issue that results in drinking, but try not to sound accusatory.

3. Be ready with concrete examples of why you think there may be a problem Before seriously confronting someone about their drug or alcohol use, spend some time thinking about the reasons you have for being concerned. Be ready to offer these up as examples when having a conversation with your loved ones.

4. Don’t offer an ultimatum A person with a drinking problem will choose alcohol over any other option they are given, resulting in more stress and frustration, even hurt. Instead of offering ultimatums, offer advice or options for help. Do your research ahead of time for good programmes to refer a loved one to, or a professional they can talk to for help.

5. Don’t pass judgement or shame Making an addict feel more shame or lowering their self-esteem will do no good in a situation such as this. Remember, alcoholism is a disease. If you yourself have not been through it, do your best not to make any judgements when someone you love is struggling with it.

6. Utilize the people in your life If you know someone who has successfully quit drinking, speak with them. Ask them how they finally came to terms with their problem and how they were initially approached about it. Ask them if they’d be willing to talk to that person for you. Sometimes information and concern coming from someone who has been through recovery means more than when it comes from someone who has not.

7. Offer resources to your loved one Sobriety and recovery will seem a lot less daunting if they have a starting point of sorts. Be ready to direct them to a treatment programme you think may be a good fit, or to online resources.

8. Don’t drink around the person Once you approach someone about their potential alcohol problem, it would be highly inconsiderate and counter effective to drink alcohol in their presence.

9. Do not enable them Enabling an addict means that your behavior somehow allows them to continue their use. This could mean making excuses for them, or bailing them out of bad situations. While it may be difficult to practice tough love, it will be beneficial for the addict in the end.

10. No matter what, continue to be supportive throughout their recovery Show them that you are proud of them and will support them through their entire journey. Continued support is vital for continued recovery. The moment it seems like you no longer care about a loved one’s recovery, they will pick up on it.  

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