How to Talk About Addiction

We all want what’s best for our friends and family. We want them to live long, prosperous and healthy lives. Those goals are hard enough to achieve when things are going well, but when your loved one is suffering from issues related to drug and alcohol dependency, they can be nearly impossible to reach.

If you’ve noticed that a friend or family member is showing signs of dependency, it’s vital to express yourself and understand their perspective. That begins with proper communication. Of course, the methods you use to talk to someone struggling with dependency are just as important as the conversation itself.

If you’re planning on talking about addiction with a loved one in Phoenix, AZ, here are some tips to help you broach the subject productively and helpfully.

Know what you’re looking for

Before you open up a dialogue, make sure you know what to look for. Do some homework about the signs and symptoms of drug or alcohol dependency. Once you’re informed, observe the person in question for some time to determine if they’re displaying those symptoms.

You don’t have to do a massive amount of research, but it helps to have a basis of understanding before talking to anyone.

Enlist help

Your first instinct may be to take your reservations directly to the person you’re worried about. Instead, take some time to discuss your findings with other friends or family members. You might be hesitant to take this route because it would seem like you’re talking about someone behind their back. In fact, asking friends and family if they’ve experienced the same issues you’ve noticed can help ground your concerns and ultimately lend more strength to your arguments when the time comes to talk it out.

Don’t talk to them when they’re inebriated

When having a conversation about addiction in Phoenix, AZ, try to find a time to speak to the person when they’re sober. Talking to a person who is drunk or high will only make them more defensive about their substance issues. What’s more, while under the influence, the person you’re talking to may be more prone to act out violently.

Of course, it also goes without saying that you shouldn’t be under the influence of drugs or alcohol when bringing up the topic of sobriety.

Get prepared for several conversations

You may hope that talking about addiction with someone you love will be all it takes to get them back on track. That will likely not be the case. Recovering from addiction can be a lifelong process that requires consistent support and understanding. Perhaps more than anything, it’s essential to let your friend or family member understand that you are there to help them as long as it takes.

Your support structure

If you need help talking about addiction in Phoenix, AZ, Advanced Sober Living can help. We’re a one-of-a-kind halfway house for men that’s focused on providing the tools men need to build happy, sober lives. We offer a comprehensive living environment that focuses on support and education in equal measure.

You or your loved one don’t have to endure issues with dependency. Contact Advance Sober Living today.

Categorised in: Recovery Program

This post was written by Writer