Because alcoholism is a disease in which a person cannot control their drinking, friends or loved ones with this addiction will need help. How can you help someone you care about to address the underlying causes of the addiction, avoid relapse, or keep from trading one addiction for another?
Alcohol intervention can be a very sensitive area. At Nexstep Medical Detox, we’ve put together five tips on how you can help.
- Consider Medical Detox
- Look Into Recovery Programs
- Address The Underlying Causes
- Be Compassionate, Not Controlling
- Practice Detachment With Love
1. Consider Medical Detox
You should never encourage or pressure anyone to quit cold turkey, without medical oversight. Alcohol withdrawal can be very painful, scary, and even life-threatening when done alone. Our Utah medical detox facility is a safe, comfortable option for getting through that first step of beating addiction.
2. Look Into Recovery Programs
Medically assisted detox is only the first step to recovering from addiction. We help to address physical dependence but not long-term psychological dependence. Our discharge planner can help connect your loved one with residential treatment facilities, sober living houses, support groups, and other rehab programs after finishing detox.
3. Address The Underlying Causes
Many people use alcohol to cope with mental illnesses and unhealed trauma. If your loved one has depression, anxiety, PTSD, another mental illness, or was abused in the past, then he or she needs extra support. You can help by listening empathetically and encouraging visits with a therapist, or support group.
4. Be Compassionate, Not Controlling
It’s important to understand that addiction is just as much of a disease as diabetes, asthma, or hypertension. It’s not a sign of weakness or a reflection of the addict’s character. Avoid criticizing your loved one, guilt-tripping them, making ultimatums, or embarrassing them in front of other people.
5. Practice Detachment With Love
It’s important to understand that there’s nothing you can do that will cure your loved one’s addiction. They are responsible for their own recovery. Your main goal should be to provide them with lots of love, encouragement, and support throughout their journey.
The negative effects of alcoholism impact more people than just the person who’s addicted. Compassion and support are just as important for you and your other family members as they are for the alcoholic.
It’s also important to remember that alcoholism does not justify unacceptable behavior. Physical or emotional abuse, domestic violence, and child neglect are never okay. If your loved one exhibits any of these behaviors, your first priority should be to protect yourself and the rest of your family.
Alcohol Detox Near Salt Lake City
At Nexstep Medical Detox, many members of our caring staff have struggled with addictions and been through the recovery process themselves. We are here to provide around-the-clock care throughout your loved one’s alcohol detox. Call today to learn more about our services or begin the admissions process.
