Addiction is a family disease that affects everyone that it comes in contact with. Once an addict gets sober, it is not likely that life will become automatically better without some work on themselves and the relationships that are important to them. Addicts in recovery should learn to take responsibility for their actions. By doing so, they can show the most important people in their lives that they are willing to do whatever it takes to clean up the mess they made by making an effort to change their ways especially when reconnecting before the holidays.
Have realistic expectations
Expecting loved ones to let an addict back into their lives may be unrealistic. There may have been a lot of damage that was done during the addiction that just cannot be taken back. The best thing that an addict in recovery can do is take the essential actions that are needed to mend the destruction that was caused by them in the first place.
Give time to heal
Addicts are known to keep repeating themselves in behaviors that betray the people that they are around because their addiction is their primary concern. Until the addiction is under control, an addict will most likely continue to harm the ones that come into their path. Depending on the magnitude of the circumstances, the people that are closest to the addict will have their guard up and will need to heal from the past. Everyone’s timelines are different, so the addict should continue to work on their recovery and give the people they hurt some space to heal. By stepping back and waiting, the addict is showing that are more self-less than selfish.
Communication is everything
Healthy communication is a must to rebuilding relationships. If your communication was not working before, it will not magically work in recovery either. Learning how to effectively communicate with a loved one takes some work on the recovering addict’s part. Start being a good listener instead of a good point maker.
Boundaries are good
Just because you are blood-related does not necessarily mean that the relationship is conducive to what you are trying to achieve in sobriety – serenity. Some family members might rub you the wrong way on a continual basis. If that is the case, then they may jeopardize your serenity which can jeopardize your sobriety. Eliminate unhealthy relationships to keep your life as simple as possible. Setting boundaries is beneficial for your sobriety.
The holidays can already be a time for tension and stress. Reconnecting before you meet for the holidays can be better than fighting over eggnog and sugar cookies.
To give your loved one a chance in recovery, send them to Serenity Oaks Wellness Center. Our innovative therapeutic practices and holistic treatments, can be helpful in repairing broken relationships as well as give them the confidence to stay sober.
Call us today:844-720-6847
