Seeing a loved one struggle with addiction is never easy and the main thing you want for them is to get their life back on track and seek the help that they need.
Whether they’re dealing with addiction to drugs, gambling, alcohol or any other form it can be heartbreaking to see their life spiralling out of control and the best thing you can do is figure out how best to support them, particularly as they navigate the likes of gambling, alcohol or cocaine rehab. If, unfortunately, there is someone in your life that you do wish to support, here’s a guide to how you can support…
Educate Yourself About the Process
The first step, no matter what the addiction, is to understand the disease itself and the process they will have to go through in rehabilitation to enter recovery. The entire process, from recognising the problem, through to withdrawal and recovery is complex and can be emotionally and physically draining for those involved. Therefore, it’s best for you to understand as much as possible of what they will be going through.
This will put you in a position in which you can better empathise with them, as well as have answers and knowledge at the different stages.
Offer Emotional Support Without Judgement
By being knowledgeable on their addiction, you’ll also be able to offer better emotional support as well as doing so in a non-judgemental manner. One of the most important things you can do is provide them with non-judgemental, unconditional emotional support, avoiding criticism or blame and purely focusing on being a source of comfort and reassurance.
Recovery is a personal journey, and they may want time to themselves or space, but make sure you remind them that they aren’t alone and you are there whenever they need you and every step of the way.
Respect Their Boundaries and the Rehab Programme
While it’s natural to want to be involved in your loved one’s recovery, it’s important to respect their boundaries and the structure of their rehab programme. Many rehab facilities have specific guidelines around family involvement, including visitation rules or limits on contact, especially in the early stages of treatment. These rules are in place to ensure that the person in recovery can focus fully on their treatment without distractions.
Respecting these boundaries and adhering to the programme’s guidelines shows your loved one that you support their recovery process and trust in their care. It’s important not to take it personally if your loved one needs space during their treatment; they may need time to reflect on their past behaviour and the changes they want to make.
Encourage Healthy Communication
Healthy communication is vital during your loved one’s recovery. While they are in rehab, they may confront difficult emotions or memories they’ve previously numbed with substances. Encouraging open, honest communication can help them feel supported as they navigate these feelings.
When talking to your loved one, be sure to listen more than you speak. Avoid giving unsolicited advice or pressuring them to open up before they’re ready. Instead, let them know you’re there when they’re ready to talk. Being patient and compassionate, even when conversations are difficult, will help build trust and strengthen your relationship during their recovery.
Take Care of Yourself
Supporting a loved one through rehab can be emotionally exhausting, and it’s important to remember that you need to take care of yourself, too. It’s easy to become so focused on helping your loved one that you neglect your own mental and physical well-being. However, if you’re emotionally drained or burnt out, you’ll be less able to offer the support they need.
Consider joining a support group for families of people struggling with addiction, such as Al-Anon or Nar-Anon. These groups provide a safe space to share your experiences, receive guidance, and connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Practising self-care—whether that’s taking time to relax, exercise, or speak to a counsellor—will help you maintain your emotional resilience during this process.
Be Patient with Their Progress
Recovery is not a linear journey, and it’s important to manage your expectations about how your loved one will progress. There may be setbacks along the way, but these are part of the process. Celebrate their small victories, such as completing a week of treatment or reaching a milestone in their sobriety, and remain patient during more challenging times.
Rehab is just the beginning of a long recovery journey, and your loved one will need ongoing support as they transition back into everyday life. Encourage them to attend follow-up care, such as outpatient therapy or support group meetings, and be there for them as they continue to work towards long-term sobriety.