Not only does alcoholism affect the individual who is abusing alcohol, but it also takes a toll on family members and loved ones. Having to watch someone you care about struggle with a drinking problem can be both upsetting and frustrating. Although the process of overcoming addiction has to be tackled by your loved one, there are several ways to show your love, concern, and support for them, which plays a significant role in their long-term recovery and preserve your own health and wellbeing at the same time.
Pinpoint and Address the Problem
Firstly, you should recognize the warning signs and learn all you can about alcohol addiction. Alcoholism, or an alcohol use disorder (AUD) is defined by a lack of control over one’s consumption of alcohol, despite its negative social, health, or occupational ramifications, and/or the emotional distress experienced when not drinking.
Your loved one may be dealing with AUD if their excessive drinking causes them to neglect their responsibilities and responsibilities. Lying about the amount of alcohol they’ve consumed or using alcohol as a coping mechanism for mental health issues are also tell-tale signs.
Research the kinds of treatment and recovery options that are available. Depending on the individual’s specific circumstances, treatment options can vary in duration and intensity.
Given that alcohol abuse may indicate signs of an undiagnosed mental health problem like anxiety or depression or anxiety, additional treatment for psychological issues should also be taken into consideration.
Statistics have shown that there were 2.5 million alcohol abuse-related treatments reported in the US in 2019. Treatments like a 12-step program or support group like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) are extremely common. There are also behavioral treatments for individuals, groups, and families that target the root cause of the problem, and residential treatment or rehabilitation facilities that provide intensive treatment like therapy, detox, and medication.
Talk to your loved one about their drinking when they are sober in a peaceful environment free of distractions. They may react negatively, but stand your ground, and express your concerns in a caring manner. Do not threaten, accuse, lecture, or make emotional pleas. Encourage them to open up about any underlying reasons, and suggest steps to address the problem, be it seeking treatment or speaking to a doctor or counselor.
There are many ways to offer encouragement. You can offer to sit with your loved one while they call a helpline, or accompany them to medical appointments or group meetings. Working together to come up with a concrete plan detailing the changes to make and how to go about the process can also be helpful. It will be difficult for your loved one to overcome their AUD by themselves. Your guidance, patience, and support will be paramount every step of the way in their journey towards sobriety.
You can support the recovery of your loved one by suggesting they take up new hobbies, engage in social activities that do not involve drinking and seek healthier ways to deal with stress. However, relapses may occur and setbacks are not uncommon. All you can do is continue offering support and encouragement, in spite of their missteps.
Take Care of Yourself
Dealing with your loved one’s alcohol addiction can take a toll on your physical, mental, and emotional health and wellbeing. You must remember to take care of yourself and seek any support you may need.
You are not to blame for someone else’s drinking problem. You mustn’t feel guilty or take responsibility for the behavior of your loved one. At the end of the day, there is only so much you can do. It is up to them to make the change.
Do not neglect your own needs. Your happiness and health should not be dictated by the behavior and recovery process of your loved one. Take time to relax, engage in self-care, and pursue your own interests. It is all about balance. Key aspects of your life like work, family, and social plans should not be compromised.
It is important to have your own support systems, like trusted friends or family, a therapist, or a support group. Having honest and open conversations with people you can rely on can be incredibly grounding. Joining peer support groups for families who deal with a loved one’s AUD can serve as a wonderful source of help and comfort.
Setting boundaries will help prevent burnout and emotional stress. The behavior of your loved one cannot be monitored 24/7, and they are ultimately responsible for their own actions and decisions. You are not their counselor, mentor, or therapist, so do not act like one and take on burdens you are incapable of handling.
It can be challenging to approach and deal with your loved one’s AUD, but you are not alone in your struggle. The road to recovery is long and hard, but having proper support and care for both you and your loved one will do wonders.