How to help addicts is something many find themselves clueless about. If you find yourself related or connected to an addict, we’ve got you covered. Here are simple and basic ways you can be of help:
- Be Enlightened
Make a research on the addiction and understand how it affects the addict and those around them Educating yourself on the addiction makes you more informed and better equipped to be of help. Knowledge is power, and wielding this power is what you must do.
- Seek Counseling and Support
Understanding the addiction doesn’t mean you’ll have all you have to do all figured out, and that’s okay. You can seek counseling from a therapist on what steps to take to help the addict. You can also join support groups where people helping other addicts share their experiences.
- Take the Addict to Seek Professional Help
Addicts need to undergo behavioral therapy to overcome the addiction, and except you’re an expert at that, you should book them a therapy session. You may even go with them if that makes them comfortable and relaxed.
- Don’t be an Enabler
Many people around addicts are guilty of enabling them in a bid to help. There are consequences attached to being an addict and if they don’t suffer it, they may want to remain addicted since you help them escape these consequences.
Don’t assist the addict financially, don’t get their groceries or pamper them like children. You’ll only be an enabler by doing so.
- Be Patient
Patience is probably the most important virtue in dealing with addicts. Don’t expect them to change overnight, give them time to heal. Don’t create unrealistic goals or pressure them to change, don’t be judgy too or you’ll lose their trust and confidence.
Finally, don’t give up on them. They need you to be there for them through the healing process. Regardless of how long it may take, they will one day get over the addiction.