Loving An Addict

When you love an addict, it is challenging. You want to provide them with the help they need, but often you are not sure what you can do to help.

The first step is to be sure this person is addicted to drugs or alcohol. The most common signs of opioid addiction are problems occurring at their work, in relationships, issues relating to self-esteem, health issues, low self-respect, legal difficulties, and not functioning well in society (for more about identifying an addict, check out this post about personality traits of an addict).

If you see these signs of addiction, there is most likely a problem. There are steps you can take to help a heroin addict.

  • Research the symptoms of abuse.
  • Watch the individual and see what issues they are experiencing.
  • Talk to the other people in their life and ask for their opinions.
  • Talk to a professional.
  • Talk to the person about receiving help.
  • Contact a professional, including a mental health or abuse professional, a doctor, a counselor or a clergy member.
  • Make sure the people involved are safe.
  • Have an intervention.

Sooner is Better Than Later When Helping a Heroin Addict

The earlier the problem is out in the open and help is received, the more effective the solution will initially be. Some individuals are able to cut back on their own. Most will need to have treatment. Early treatments are less likely to be disruptive or cause a lot of anxiety or stress on the individual. The chances of this person requesting help are slim, and the situation will worsen over time. Just coping with an addict won’t benefit anyone. They could be fired from their job, be arrested, or even die.

Many addicts will try to hide the situation, but you still need to talk to this person. Make sure they are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is possible that they are not aware of the problem or that their behavior has changed. Make sure you set aside enough time for the conversation so you can tell them your concerns and understand what they are thinking. Tell them you love them and this is why you want to talk. Keep the conversation flowing both ways, and do not give a lecture. Don’t judge them. Most addictions will require professional help.

Opioid Addiction Treatment

When their treatment begins, it will require screening. This involves questions regarding how much they drink or do drugs and how often. The consequences of their actions are discussed. This can be done by a doctor, nurse, social worker, or counselor. If the addiction is severe enough, they may need treatment for physical withdrawal, and an outpatient MAT treatment center may be the best option.

You should keep telling them how much you love them and that you want them to receive help. Some meetings can help with supporting you as well as the addict. The longer the addiction continues, the higher the level of care the person will need. An addict can gain control but will need your help. You must stay strong and continue until they receive support. You can maintain your relationship with an addict if you help them the right way.

We’re here to help…

Whether treatment is for you, a family member, or a friend, we are happy to speak with you about our outpatient drug treatment program and how AOC can help patients with their opioid addiction recovery. Since 2007, AOC has helped thousands of patients on their path to recovery.