Part of most addicts’ recovery processes often involve a loved one or a family member. They are a crucial part of every addict’s journey. Addicts do not only hurt themselves, they also harm the people surrounding them. Their actions and words can leave a sting in the hearts of those close to them, especially when going through withdrawal. So, as much as most family members, and friends try to downplay their importance, an addict’s recovery cannot be complete without their input.
The actions of just a single individual who is an addict have destroyed many families, with many still picking up the broken pieces. No matter the degree of hurt an addict causes, abandoning them is never the right solution. Abandonment can lead to them inflicting more harm on themselves. Therefore, never shun away anyone living with an addiction, especially someone close. So, with the help of this article, individuals who have close ones suffering from one form of addiction will be able to offer some help.
Forms of Addiction
When we talk about addiction, many usually attach it to something negative. It is not always the case, as addiction can come in various forms. It is possible for someone to be addicted to a particular food or clothing brand. The form of addiction that causes a need for serious concern is the one that harms the body and mind. Substance addiction is the biggest and most dangerous addiction type out there. The harm it does to the body and mind is very immense. Below are the two main forms of addiction.
Substance Addiction
As said earlier, substance addiction remains the biggest form of addiction plaguing our society. Due to the ease at which individuals gain access to these substances, it becomes very easy to misuse them. Basically, substance abuse involves the misuse of drugs or substances, whose main purpose is to help or treat the body. It means using them for another purpose than what they were meant for. Victims of substance addiction are often plagued with withdrawal symptoms, as a result of the body becoming too dependent on the abused substance. Examples of substance addiction include
- Alcohol Addiction
- Drug Addiction
- Nicotine Addiction
Behavioral Addiction
There’s still a lot of study and discourse going around about behavioral addiction. However, two behavioral addictions have been identified as a major concern. Excessive gambling is an addiction, so if you have a Slotsgem login, and play their games, try not to get too attached. This type of addiction can cause great financial harm. They are
- Gambling Addiction
- Online Gaming Addiction.
Ways in Which Non-Addicts Can Offer Help
Actively seek out ways as a non-addict to help a loved one who suffers from addiction. There are numerous ways in which you can make the burden they are carrying much lighter. All you have to do is put in the work, and be patient. Other ways in which you can offer help include.
- Avoiding Enabling Behaviour
When an addict is trying to quit, all their senses are heightened. They can be easily triggered by the slightest action or statement. So, try your best not to keep their addiction burning. Enabling your loved one does nothing more than prolong their addiction. Your duty should be to help them fight their addiction, not prolong them. It is understandable to feel some sort of hurt, especially when they are in pain or going through withdrawals. So, you have to stand firm, as the potential benefit is worth the heartbreak.
Many individuals may have no idea that they are an enabler. Some do it unknowingly. Enabling behavior includes lending them money to fund their addiction, hiding their faults, and joining them in their addiction.
- Provide Professional Help and Support
Rather than financing their addiction, spend that money on getting them professional help. There are numerous ways to get them professional treatment, that won’t even break the bank. Addiction is a very difficult issue to manage alone, which is why they need a guide. Someone who they can call on whenever they feel the urge. There are quite a number of addiction therapists out there, who can provide the help they need. Other ways to seek professional help include patient rehabilitation centers, addiction programs, and support groups.
- Engage in Consistent Communication
Ensure continuous contact with any loved one that could be suffering from one form of addiction or the other. It shows them that there is someone who cares for them, and that might just be the reason they keep on fighting. Also, when communicating with them, do it with compassion, and avoid being judgemental.
