Is it Possible to Help an Addict in Denial?
Admitting you have a problem is the first step in solving it, and for many addicts, it’s the hardest step. It requires facing the issues that may have led them into addiction and giving up the substances that they thought were helping them cope. If your loved one is still in denial, it may be hard to get them to accept your help, but it’s worth the effort to learn how to help an addict.
Yes, it is possible to help an addict in denial, but don’t think of “helping” as meaning only that you’ve convinced them to quit their substance use and go into drug rehab to get medical assistance. Just letting them know you love and support them and are there for them when needed is a big help. You can continue to gently remind them of their need to get real help.
What to Say to Help an Addict
Whatever you say, do it calmly and supportively. Don’t make judgmental statements that blame the addict for their behavior or make them feel guilty about any damage they might have done. Don’t confront them when they’re under the influence or hungover. Choose a time when you are both rested and in a positive frame of mind.
Here are some ways to approach them and what to say when you speak:
Be Loving and Supportive
When trying to learn how to help an addict, try to show them you care about them and help, but don’t make excuses for them:
- “I love you, and I know it’s been hard for you lately. But I think you have a problem with drugs/alcohol, and you should need to speak to someone who can help you with it.”
- Share a memory from times when they did not abuse drugs or alcohol. This reminds them that the life they’re living is not the way it has to be; they can have that better life again.
- “I’m sorry if you don’t see that you have a problem. If you ever do want my help, even if it’s just to talk, I’m here for you.”
Show How Their Problem Hurts Them
Keep the focus on their behavior. Don’t tell them how they’ve hurt you, which can easily turn into a “blame game” or make them feel so guilty they want to forget with a drink or drugs.
- “I’m worried about you and afraid something bad might happen to you.”
- “I don’t like to see you hurting yourself. I love you too much to not say anything or try to get you some help.”
- “I’m worried that If you continue to drink/use, you’ll lose your job, your friends, and your family.”
Ask Them to Face the Facts
- “Do you really like living like this? Don’t you deserve something better?”
- “If you’re not going to get help, I can’t be around you.” Be prepared to act on this if you have to. Don’t make it an idle threat.
How Muse in Los Angeles Can Help You Help an Addict in Your Life
Knowing how to help an addict by providing genuine support is an important element of successful recovery. Muse Treatment is here to help you help your loved one. The treatment specialists at our Los Angeles alcohol and drug rehab center and alcohol rehab can offer expert guidance in successfully overcoming a loved one’s refusal to seek help for a drug or alcohol problem – or to even admit they have a problem in the first place. You’ll not only get helpful information from our treatment specialists but can also talk to other family members facing the same dilemma you are. Contact Muse Treatment in Los Angeles today at (800) 426-1818 to learn how our treatment process and intervention techniques can teach you how to help an addict with positive interaction.
