Overcoming Barriers to Addiction
When faced with addiction in a loved one it can be hard to know what to do about it. There are obstacles that need to be overcome and sometimes you just don’t know where to start. A successful intervention is needed but you may not yet be up to that point. Let’s see what comes first.
First things first, you have to be certain it is addiction. If you are not certain, then you will not be able to help your loved one, because in moments they will persuade you that it’s not as bad as you fear and that they can handle it themselves. Once you have truly decided it is addiction, then don’t let yourself be persuaded otherwise.
Know that rehab really is key. A true addict is unable to handle the situation alone. Going cold turkey is a horrible experience and not one many addicts will face. Once withdrawal is done rehab is still required. Otherwise it is too easy for the person to fall into the same traps and habits as before. Keep this strongly in mind as what you need to achieve to help your loved one. The Narconon program is different, see how.
Finding your loved one. Often the addict is no longer living at home or may not even have a stable home. You need to take the time to locate them, get in touch with friends and family and then hopefully your loved one directly. At the point you have found them, you can arrange for them to come and visit, it may be a little holiday, Christmas or someone’s birthday. Find an excuse to get them home for a little bit. Only then can you really do something about it.
Help the person to see their own self-worth. Drugs and alcohol take a toll on a person and their self-respect and self-worth. They are usually aware of the harm they have caused to those around them, even if they are not immediately facing or admitting it. If things have really escalated they may no longer care if they live or die and “don’t want to be any more trouble.” You need to show them how valuable they are to you, and that you want to help them through this difficult time. You need to keep gently reminding the person of all the good things they have done and achieved, get them to see some good in themselves.
Help the addict over their fear of withdrawal. Just going cold turkey is a nightmare and for those who have tried it on their own it is generally something they never want to experience again. So find a rehab where you are happy that the withdrawal programme is going to be as good as it can be, and help them see that it is possible to get through it.
Give them something to look forward to. The idea of a sober life may be a depressing one for them. A life with no drugs or alcohol may be viewed as boring or impossible. So give them things to look forward to, try and rekindle some dreams or goals that they used to have. Give ideas that fit to your loved one, things that can be something to be looked forward to.
Here exact tips on how to hold a full and successful intervention.
If you find that your attempt isn’t successful, then getting a professional interventionist is the best way to go.
Overcoming these barriers, you will truly be on your way to helping your loved one back onto the path to a sober and happy life.
