When family or friends deal with a loved one that is abusing a substance, it is a hard situation. Everyone reacts differently in these situations, but one of the worst things you can do is to enable the individual. We are here to give you some guidance in how to stop enabling an addict.

Reflect and be honest: Although you may have started helping the individual with the best of intentions, often the enabler starts covering up the problem and contributing to the addiction. We ask you to reflect and be honest with yourself about the addiction. So much of dealing with addictions is denial, and one of the best things to do is be upfront and honest with yourself about the circumstance. One of the best things to do is to try to remove yourself from the situation temporarily and reflect on what is going on and what is the best way to help the individual in need.

Change behavior: As an enabler, you are contributing to the addiction. If you catch yourself lying, covering up and making up excuses for the individual, you need to stop and change behavior. As tough as it may be, do not help the addict, do not fall for the individual’s manipulations, and do not participate in the substance abuse with the addict. You need to set boundaries with the substance abuser.

Withdraw support: One of the best things to do is to stop doing anything that allows the addict to continue their current lifestyle. When an enabler provides funds, housing and food, then the addict can continue in their substance abuse without having to deal with any of the consequences.

Realities of addiction: Addictions are scary things that can really harm families and relationships. By being honest with yourself, changing your behavior and withdrawing support, the addict will have to realize their problems and seek treatment.

When a family is affected by an addiction, the substance abuser and the family should all seek a counselor for a treatment program. 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 for all individuals involved.