When an addiction hits a home, all people involved suffer. It is not just about the abuser, but the entire family is affected. Enabling a loved one usually results from a feeling of responsibility and wanting to help someone you love.

The most common type of enabling is dealing with someone with substance abuse. Individuals most commonly enable them by continuing to give them housing, food and funds. By continuing to give the addict money, they are able to continuously buy whatever drugs and alcohol they need to get their fix.

Usually addicts do not realize their condition until they hit a “rock bottom,” and if someone is enabling them with food, housing and funds, then they will not hit a rock bottom. Bradford Health explains that “No one wants a loved one to become homeless, turn to criminal activity, or suffer in any way, but by providing the means for someone to feed their addiction, you are actually prolonging another form of suffering which could eventually end just as badly as whatever you fear your loved one might face without your help.” Unless addicts realize how destructive their behavior has become and only if they are faced with the consequences of their actions will they realize that they need help.

An enabler’s intentions start out good and they are honestly trying to help; however, after the problem continues to grow, more enabling is required. Enablers are often lying, covering up and making excuses for the addict.

In situations with enablers and addicts, it is not just the addict that needs a treatment plan. Solace Counseling offers family counseling and treatment plans for all of those who have been affected by the destructive behavior of the addict.

If you suspect that you or someone you know may be either suffering from substance abuse or enabling someone who is, we encourage you to contact Solace Counseling. We provide a comprehensive treatment plan that covers both the physical and mental aspects of substance abuse, from start to finish.