Seven Ways to Support Someone in Recovery 

If you have someone you care about dealing with an addiction, you likely want to help as much as possible. There are several things you can do to provide the help and support that encourages recovery. Consider the following ways to help:

Recognize addiction is a disease: It is common to become frustrated with someone that has a substance abuse problem. But if you think of it as a disease, you can shift your perspective. Drug and alcohol addiction can disrupt brain function and rewire the way the brain works. Addiction is a complicated disease that includes both physical and psychological dependency.

Understand recovery is a process: Recovery from substance abuse is not always linear. At times, someone may take two steps forward and one step back. Try to avoid getting angry or shaming someone for a misstep.

Educate yourself on addiction and recovery: The more you understand about addiction and the recovery process, the better. Being better informed will help you understand your loved one’s contributing factors that may have led to addiction. Education may also help you find resources that will help both you and your loved one with substance abuse.

Listen: It is vital to not only talk to someone with an addiction, but listen as well. Try to take a non-judgmental approach to listening to what someone has to say. Sometimes you do not have to have the answers. Just be there to listen.

Encourage healthy habits: Encourage your loved one to exercise, get enough sleep, and find healthy ways to deal with stress. Offering to bring a healthy meal or go for a walk is a good way to show your support.

Take care of yourself: Dealing with a loved one that has an addiction can become exhausting. Do not forget to take care of yourself. Take time to exercise, relax, and recharge. If you need to take a step back and allow some space between you and the person you care about, that is OK.

Don’t give up: Taking a temporary step away from a loved one does not mean giving up on them. Let your loved one know that you care, you will be there, and they have your support. Sometimes knowing someone is in your corner makes all the difference.