How to Support a Recovering Addict
In case you are getting ready to support a recovering addict that is currently under on their way to sobriety, there may be a feel things to consider in order to offer them the best support possible. The process of getting to sobriety may not be easy, and therefore, having a supportive network outside rehab is essential.
Understanding Addiction
Before getting on the path of how to support a recovering addict, it is important to understand addiction itself. There are different types of addiction, and they are mainly split into two main groups, the substance abuse and behavioural addiction.
Each type of addiction and each person may require a specific treatment course, but they all may present some common signs and symptoms, including behavioural, mental and physical ones. These may include:
- Changes in social behaviour and general performance: isolating from friends and family or neglecting responsibilities they used to cater. The declining in performance at work or school are also a sign.
- Tolerance: The increase of the need in the substance or behaviour, also presented with physical and emotional discomfort when not in use/acting.
- Health Problems: Increased infections or health issues related to the activity or substance, quick weight loss or gain, tremors, and more.
Remember: These are just some of the possible signs and symptoms of an addiction, but these may not necessarily mean an addiction issue. If you have any concerns about a loved one or about yourself, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will he happy to have a confidential chat with you and help you to understand the situation better.
The Power of Support and Why It Matters So Much for Recovery
Many people that struggle with addiction may encounter one of the most difficult parts of staying sober: not having a supportive network. But what many people may not know is that as well as the importance of the addiction therapies and counselling, having a supportive network at home is crucial.
This is because many people that suffer from addictions find themselves fighting for a battle of their own and constantly feel alone of left alone. The support from loved ones in recovery may help breaking this barrier and encourage recovery, and active listening may encourage them to keep fighting the battle.
What Can I Do to Help a Loved One in Recovery?
Acceptance
The first and main step of helping a recovery addict is to accept them without judgement. Many recovering addicts feel judged and embarrassed because of the stigma caused by addiction, and this may cause a negative impact on their recovery.
Help them to understand that what they are going through requires a lot of strength and that this is the opposite of showing weakness is a great start!
Active Listening
As mentioned above, active listening to someone that is going through many changes and challenges is essential. They may not feel like talking to start but making them feel comfortable to talk about it in case they want to, is a great start.
Supportive groups and counselling are available at New Leaf as part of our aftercare services, but having someone they trust and care at home that will be all ears can take their recovery path to another level.
Encourage Good Habits and Recommendations
Each person and each path are unique, so recommendations may vary accordingly to their needs and addiction treated. Therefore, understanding and having the knowledge of what was recommended to help their path to sobriety is essential.
These may include medications that were started when in rehab, therapies, and counselling sessions, but healthy habits which may also have started while in treatment, are also a great ally to recovery. Healthy habits may include sports and activities that help them release endorphins and dopamine (hormones that play a crucial role in recovery), as well as reduce the levels of cortisol (the ‘stress hormone’).
Other healthy habits may include setting daily sleep routine, which is vital for physical and mental health and a balanced diet that will provide essential nutrients for a healing body. Avoiding possible triggers and stress management also play a crucial role in the path to recovery, but these may vary according to each addiction and personal needs.
Setting Boundaries: Healthy Habits for Both You and Your Loved One
As well as the care for the recovery addict, is it also important to remember about self-care and to maintain boundaries. You need to prioritise your own needs and well-being to help someone, as well as keep strength in case they need you.
Remembering that each case and each person is unique, so setting expectations based on others or past events is not ideal. Realistic expectations may be necessary and understanding that setbacks are normal is crucial. Try to keep encouraged and focusing on the progress!
And if needed, do not hesitate to contact professional help. You may not be able to provide them with all the help they need, and this is why aftercare is available at New Leaf. Our professionals can help them to the path of sobriety!
Recognising Relapse in a Recovering Addict
What are the Signs and How to Respond
As well as the signs of a possible addiction, there may be a feel things to look at when supporting a recovery addict. These include both emotional and behavioural signs, including:
- Increased anxiety or irritability: Distress and negative feelings may indicate that a recovering addict is more susceptible to relapse.
- Isolations: Avoiding support systems and network may be a sign of relapse.
- Idealisation of Substance or Behaviour Treated: Minimising the negative impacts is a warning sign.
- Contact with Possible Triggers: Going to places and meeting people that can be associated with previous addiction a risk factor.
- Change in sleep and eating habits: These also may be indicators of emotional distress and therefore they require attention.
Please bear in mind that none of this necessarily mean a relapse, but they all require attention. Be careful to not trespass any boundaries, but if you are worried about a possible relapse, stay calm and avoid judgement.
Offer support, express your concern, and listen what they might have to say. Always encourage the recovering addict to seek for professional help in case any of the signs above are present and remember that recovery is a journey that requires strength, so focus on the positive steps!
Aftercare Support and Programs to Recovering Addicts
If you are looking to support a recovery addict and you have any questions on the best approach, do not hesitate to seek for professional help and guidance. New Leaf offers family and recovery addict support for all patients that were under our treatment centre in Birmingham.