Communicating With Loved Ones In Rehab
Drug and alcohol abuse can have a substantial impact on not just your body, but addiction can also tear apart your family. The consequences that come from having someone in your family can have a lasting impact on you whether it is your family or friends.
In this type of situation, it is natural to experience a variety of conflicting emotions about your relationship. You might feel anxious because you want them to receive treatment, but you could also be angry at them for the consequences their actions have had on you and your family.
If you are ready to communicate with a loved one who is in rehab, then the first step is to engage in effective communication with them. It is important to be as constructive and honest as possible as you communicate with them. Here are some tips you can use to rebuild your relationships, whether through writing letters or attending a joint counseling session.
1. Build Confidence
If you are ready to restore a broken relationship with your loved ones, then you should build them up by telling them how much you value them. During rehab, your loved ones are experiencing lots of emotions, from self-doubt, guilt, and uncertainty about the future.
You can help them overcome these feelings of self-doubt by focusing on their positive qualities and traits. Show them that you see beyond their addiction and that you are still there for them and that you value their commitment to rehabilitation.
You can use phrases like “I am proud of you for taking this step” and “I respect your commitment to sobriety.” These phrases will focus their attention on overcoming their addictions, but also position yourself as a positive force in this stage of their life.
2. Offer Support
Depending on what stage your loved one is at in rehab, they are likely feeling lonely and fear that you do not understand their struggles. Many drug and alcohol addicts question themselves for not being able to simply “get sober.”
This is why it is crucial that you let your loved one know that you have spoken with their treatment counselors and that you are learning about their treatment process. Once your loved one knows that you are taking the initiative to understand their addictions, they will trust you more and feel more connected to you.
Providing support to your loved one during their rehabilitation process will increase their chances of success, and you will be able to rebuild your relationship!
3. Offer Concrete Ways To Support Them
While it can be helpful to show support by saying “I am here to help you,” it can be much better to offer concrete ways you will help your friend or family overcome their addiction. Since your loved one might be struggling with their job due to their habits, you can offer to drive them to interviews and help them write their resume.
You should talk with their treatment specialist if you are not sure about the best ways to help your loved one. Even the smallest thing like attending an outpatient meeting and talking to them about their struggles can have a tremendous impact on their recovery!
Help Your Loved One Overcome Addiction With Communication
The most important thing you can do to help a loved one overcome substance abuse is to provide honest and transparent communication throughout their journey. Active communication starts with honesty so you can address the underlying impacts that come from their drug and alcohol addiction.
Use the above steps to offer love, forgiveness, and take constructive steps to help your loved one live a life free of addiction. ADAPT Programs is the leading drug and alcohol abuse treatment center to help you or your loved ones find a lifetime of recovery.
Contact us today if you or a loved one are ready to live a life free from the bonds of addiction. Our dedicated team of professionals are here to help you overcome your addiction to drugs and alcohol so you can reconnect with your family and live the life you deserve!