It seems that it has been a long time coming. The lying, scamming, and manipulating has brought the family to seek more help. Once the addict is in recovery, the family has to regain control over their own lives while still supporting the healing addict. This can be a very difficult balance. Many families will find that they are worried about saying the wrong thing. Mixed feelings of guilt, anger, resentment, and empathy start to become overwhelming. Reacting properly is very imperative at this crossroad.
A few steps that can be taken will not make the journey easy, but it can help the healing process and some of these steps are necessary to see the loved one succeed. Communication can be very tricky. It is best to seek advice from a professional or coach that is helping with the process.
Writing a letter to the addict is difficult, but everyone will want to express their feelings. When writing, it is good to start with love and compassion. Some may feel that forgiveness will also be helpful, but not everyone will be ready to do so. Give forgiveness a chance, in time. Don’t let conflicting emotions get in the way of supporting the addict. Encouraging confidence and offering support are the best courses of action.
Join in on the counseling if the facility will allow it. Set up an appointment with the therapist prior to the meeting. This will gage the tone of the meeting and set guidelines of what to expect. It will help to prepare what to discuss. This will also help control emotions from getting too out of control. Let them know that support is here, but they need to know they are here for themselves and that needs to be the focus.
Many excuses will arise. Most addicts try to convince their families that they don’t need to be there. It is important to let the professionals determine when it is safe for them to come home. Again, let them know that you are there to support them through this tough time, but they need the support of the doctors and staff, also.
The family members shouldn’t be afraid to say no to the addict. They will have mixed feelings about this, but it will be what is best for the addict. The treatment is only the beginning. After treatment, there are more steps to take to ensure success into sobriety, but it is best to focus on one stage of recovery at a time.
Serenity Oaks Wellness Center seeks to adorn each client which comes through our 5 week program by taking their life and making it more beautiful with the tools of recovery. Call us today for information: 844-720-6847
