How To Help A Loved One Recovering From Drug Addiction

The drug addiction statistics here in the US are concerning, to say the least. What remains a slight ray of hope, though, is the vast number of people experiencing addiction who are eventually able to recover.

Some recover on their own; others require professional help, like hypnosis for drug addiction.

However, the chances of recovery dramatically increase when someone experiencing a drug addiction has a strong support system during their recovery period. It also reduces the chances of a relapse and can really help people turn their lives around.

Educate Yourself

When you’re trying to support a loved one during recovery, it’s important to educate yourself. It’s easy to think that you know everything about drug addiction—but trust us; you don’t. Everyone’s recovery journey is unique, so do not try to generalize it based on your own or someone else’s experiences.

Also, understand and accept that addiction has nothing to do with willpower or morality. A person experiencing an addiction can’t just snap out of it. There’s a whole lot of biology at play affecting their brain’s specific parts that are responsible for impulse control.

The more you know about their addiction and recovery struggles, the easier it’ll be for you to help them.

Be There for Them Without Judging Them

As we mentioned, addiction isn’t a moral failing, don’t make your loved one feel like it is. Deciding to go toward recovery is a major decision and one that you should wholeheartedly support by being there for them and encouraging them.

Also, addiction recovery can be tough. Make sure your loved one knows they have someone to talk to—someone who won’t judge them for their choices.

Try To Eliminate Unnecessary Triggers

This is one of the most helpful things you can do when supporting a loved one through recovery. People often relapse because of stress since their addiction has been their “escape” earlier as well.

If you’re around them, try to ensure there are no unnecessary triggers around them that could cause stress. This would include everything from very obvious triggers like alcohol in front of someone addicted to alcohol to more subtle things like arguments that can cause a relapse.

 You can also show your support by helping your loved one find the professional support they need. At Blossom Hypnosis, we offer alcohol and drug addiction recovery through hypnosis. We can also help you learn about self-hypnosis for drug addiction—get in touch to learn more.