Understanding what’s involved in living with a recovering addict means you’re going to be better prepared to help with their recovery. You already know that an addiction can affect not just the individual, but friends and family too. Recovery is no different, and it’s also important to remember that it’s a lifelong process. They will be battling their addiction and will look to you for support in decreasing the chances of relapse. Here are some tips that will help you be a more effective partner.
Support Their Sobriety
It’s important for you to maintain an alcohol or drug-free and sober lifestyle as it’s important for temptation to be kept away from someone recovering. This is one of the reasons why inpatient rehab programs, such as those being offered at Epiphany Sober Living, are preferred. It takes the individual away from the environment in which they were using. Remove all intoxicating substances from your home and if necessary look at making lifestyle changes to support your loved one during their recovery. It’s also important to look for activities that are consistent with a substance-free lifestyle.
Educate Yourself
Many drug and alcohol treatment facilities provide education for family members. Addiction seriously changes the lives of all those close to the addict, and they often need help too. Understanding how addiction works, the stress involved and learning how to support an addict are important for the restoration of the family unit. For everyone to be involved in the recovery process means they have to learn the best ways to provide support. If you can’t find an outpatient family therapy program, the internet is a wonderful resource to use.
Get Help for Yourself
A recovering addict needs support, but it’s just as important for family and friends to get the support they need. There are various avenues to explore such as family support groups, online forums, and counseling. Obtaining the right kind of support will provide the encouragement you need to help you cope. It also helps to meet and talk with other people who know what you’re going through. One other benefit in support for yourself is that your recovering family member may be more willing to look for support on their own when they see you asking.
Issues with Stress
A recovering addict is very susceptible to stress and then relapse. Stress is a common complaint in the world today, but for a recovering addict, it needs to be reduced as much as possible. If you know what to expect you are better able to help them in a way that’s beneficial. Resources you can use to help with stress include therapy, support groups, education, and counseling. You can also look into meditation, exercising, and deep breathing.
If at any time you believe your loved one is at risk of relapse you should be prepared to take action. Be proactive, not reactive, and take the steps needed to provide a safe environment for their continued recovery.
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