How to Help an Addicted Child Get on the Path to Recovery
Family members have a potentially powerful influence when attempting to get help for an addicted child. Based on love and as deeply layered as the relationship you share, that potential may mean the difference between real life and the substance-mediated existence they have grown accustomed to. Overcoming addiction is never easy, but the support of family and friends can have a significant effect on an addict’s feelings of self-efficacy as well as their attitudes toward potential recovery. Getting a loved one to seek help can be quite a challenge, but support and assistance are available for you if you know where to look for it.
How to Help an Addicted Child Accept That They Need Help
Even before broaching the difficult subject with your loved one, there are decisive steps you can take to start the healing when you believe your child is in over their head. To get things started:
- Trust your intuition—that nagging voice that’s telling you things aren’t right. Denial may seem simpler, but it won’t be for long. When emotions are involved, as they are with those we love, it may cloud logic and reality. If your gut is telling you your child has a substance abuse problem, trust it, acknowledge it, and move forward.
- Educate yourself about addiction first, and reach out for support. Sometimes, before we can confront and give meaningful assistance to an addicted loved one, we need to shore up our own position. Understanding the rehab process and the treatment options is essential to helping an addicted child make a reasoned decision.
- Find solidarity with a substance abuse family support group. They are generally free and open to anyone. Hearing from other parents can put things in perspective and help you to anticipate the challenges ahead.
- Set aside time for a private, uninterrupted discussion when your child is not under the influence. Initiate a dialogue where both of you are able to share your thoughts. Start by mentioning your relationship and what it means to you. Then, talk about what you have observed: behavior changes when they are using, how life is impacted, its effect on relationships, etc. Give your child a chance to respond to your concerns.
- Be persistent. There is a good chance your child may not agree to seek treatment after your first conversation. Plan to talk again and share the information you have gathered about potential treatment options. With continued communication, you may persuade your child it is time to start on the path to recovery.
Locating the Best Treatment Facility for Your Loved One
Helping an addicted child start on the path to recovery becomes exponentially easier when you locate the right treatment facility, so it is best to do your homework. Start your research online, and line up two or three potential options. Making some calls prior to the conversation with your child will arm you with information and possible resources.
Once you identify a treatment facility in your area, grab a note pad and give them a call. Ask to be connected with an admissions counselor. Most addiction treatment centers have designated staff members ready to explain their program and answer your questions. Specialists in dealing with clients and their families, they can walk you through the process involved in getting your loved one started in treatment.
The admissions staff will give you information on the center and define their treatment modalities. They will be able to provide insurance verification and explain their cash rate and available amenities if you will be paying out-of-pocket. You should be prepared to discuss your goals for your child and get their experienced input.
Be sure to question the center staff on their family programs. Since addiction is a disease that affects the whole family, finding a treatment program that includes education, support, and counseling specifically geared toward an addict’s family is essential for successful healing and better long-term outcomes.
Turning the Tide on Substance Abuse
Addiction is a disease that affects the entire family; it changes relationships and prompts codependent behaviors. The child you love and miss is still there, though they may be unrecognizable to you at present. Whether they are college-age or older adults, as parents, we will do whatever it takes to help, especially when we perceive our kids are in danger.
As you strive to figure out how to help an addicted child, remember that you are not alone. There are many parents and family members who have been where you are, and through participation in 12-step support groups or family support groups, you can benefit and grow from their experience.
Though you may be at your wit’s end, there is help and hope available. Consulting the experts in substance abuse rehabilitation can help you to learn the best ways to approach your loved one. Despite your pain and frustration, you have the potential to have a powerful impact, effectively turning the tide on the stress and friction that addiction has brought to your family and getting your child on the path to recovery.