Helping a Family Member Overcome Substance Abuse

When a family member abuses drugs or alcohol, the whole family suffers. Helping a family member overcome substance abuse is a group effort that takes courage, persistence and strength through the entire process. From recognizing the problem to continuing support through aftercare, the family plays a huge role in their loved one’s recovery.

Helping a Family Member Overcome Substance Abuse: Staging an Intervention

Staging a family intervention is the most effective way to help your loved one recognize that he or she has a problem. Start by calling a drug rehab and asking for a professional interventionist to help your family prepare for the intervention. During the intervention each family member will be given a chance to speak openly and honestly about the impact the person’s addiction has had on their life, show they are unwilling to ignore the behavior any longer, and help the addict to admit they need help. The goal of the intervention is to get your family member into rehab as soon as possible.

Helping a Family Member Overcome Substance Abuse: Drug Rehab

The family must be prepared to take the individual to a drug rehab immediately following the intervention. Delaying treatment, even a day, can give your loved one the chance to back out and change their mind. Even if they still agree to rehab, some addicts will go on a binge if they know they’ll be without drugs for a long period of time, putting them at risk for overdose. Keep the momentum achieved from the intervention by researching addiction treatment programs beforehand and having a drug rehab ready to accept your family member as soon as the intervention is over.

Helping a Family Member Overcome Substance Abuse: Family Counseling

Many alcohol and drug rehabs offer family counseling as part of their treatment program. These sessions allow family members to speak with their loved one about the impact their substance abuse has had on their lives an learn the best way to help their loved one stay clean and sober once treatment is over. Family counseling is very healing for both the addict and their loved ones, and can make a huge positive impact on your loved one’s recovery.

Helping a Family Member Overcome Substance Abuse: After Rehab

After your family member completes their treatment program, they may be encouraged to participate in drug rehab aftercare, such as 12-step programs, follow-up counseling, sober living and other methods that will help them avoid relapse. It’s important to continue showing your love and support and encourage your loved one to keep up with their meetings and stay on track. If your loved one has lost their driver’s license because of a DUI, support them by providing transportation to and from their aftercare activities.

Don’t let an addiction to drugs or alcohol destroy your family any longer. Call Casa Palmera help your family member overcome his or her substance abuse.

Disclaimer


This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for medical advice. We understand that everyone’s situation is unique, and this content is to provide an overall understanding of substance use disorders. These disorders are very complex, and this post does not take into account the unique circumstances for every individual. For specific questions about your health needs or that of a loved one, seek the help of a healthcare professional.