Addiction comes in many forms and may manifest in different ways; however, the common thread is that addiction takes complete control of a person’s life. If you have a loved one who struggles with addiction, you understand the firm grasp of dependence. While it’s difficult to watch someone you care about deal with addiction, it can be even more difficult to approach him or her to confront the serious issue at hand. With the topic of possible addiction being such a sensitive subject, where do you start and how do you approach the situation?

Look at Yourself First: Having a relationship with someone that has a drug addiction can be stressful and mentally draining. First, make sure you are in a good place personally before you approach the situation. Jumping into the discussion could cause you to make rash decisions, which in turn may only push your loved one further away from you and the help they need. Seek advice from other trusted family members or friends. Think about why you are doing this and brainstorm possible scenarios that may come up during your discussion. Also, learn effective communication tactics. This will help you achieve the message you want to send to your love one. Once you feel you are prepared to handle the situation, proceed with caution because no matter how ready you may feel, you can’t plan out your loved one’s reaction and responses.

The Approach: As you begin talking to you loved one, remember the goal is not for immediate dismissal of the addiction, but for a step toward the road to recovery. While each situation is different, here are some helpful tips as you plan your personal approach: 

• Express that you care about them. 

• Bring up a specific time that their addiction has worried you. 

• Offer to take the next step, such as driving them to the doctor to make an appointment. 

• Listen to their response and be attentive to what they say. Listen to them fully and be supportive if they are agreeable to getting help.

Your loved one may react with anger, denial, or helplessness. If they don’t seem open to the idea at all, it may be necessary to temporarily drop the subject and plan for another discussion. Don’t be discouraged—you have already laid the foundation for future conversations. You may feel frustrated, but know that you have helped by placing the idea in your loved one’s thoughts.

Solace Counseling is here to help with a range of addictions and will help each patient develop a personal treatment plan with our outpatient alcohol and drug treatment program. For more information about drug addiction help in Dallas, visit our website or check us out on Facebook and Twitter.