After a substance abuse recovery program has ended some people find themselves alone without a support team to help them stay sober. It is imperative that one’s loved ones are prepared to get involved and assist the addicted family member through this difficult stage of recovery. The support of those that are closest to the one who has received treatment can be a real boon to their efforts to stay sober. It is possible to feel demoralized or unmotivated after the experience of tackling their addiction has reached this recovery stage. Making it a group effort can ameliorate these feelings.
In family therapy at Sunstone Recovery we believe in a collaborative treatment approach. Addiction does not only affect the one who has the substance abuse problem. Family members also have a difficult time coping with their loved one’s addiction and their role in it. It can take a long time for addiction patterns and behaviors to shift into this new stage of recovery. We understand this and offer counseling for the whole family as well as coping skills training so that the client’s path to sobriety is not one traveled alone.
Addiction in a Family Member
When a family member is struggling with a substance abuse problem it is important that the family educate themselves about addiction. They will not be able to help if they cannot bring some well-researched knowledge to the table. If all they have are questions then who is going to provide the answers? It will take time to convince them to seek treatment and then there must be a treatment facility that has an available slot for them.
8 Methods for Family Members to Assist in Recovery
- Manage conflict within the family and provide support
- Help with abiding by all treatment recommendations
- Promote total abstinence from addictive substances
- Advocate for taking part in support groups
- Assist with developing good coping skills
- Recognize the signs of relapse
- Encourage participation in purposeful, structured activities
- Remind them that permanent change is possible
Make sure that everyone involved is on board with their loved one’s recovery. Good communication skills are essential that lessen any residual tension and augment effective support. When a comprehensive treatment plan is in place, it must be followed. This may require help in getting the loved one to take prescribed medication, attend therapy sessions, and work with the treatment team to stay abreast of any changes in recovery.
Start Today
To help your loved one develop good coping skills, it takes nothing more than being there for them. Let them know that they can call you at any time of the day or night. Assist them in solving problems that arise related to stress and remind them of the coping skills necessary in resisting temptation. Keep an eye on them in terms of recognizing any signs that they may relapse and have a plan in advance on what actions to take if a relapse occurs. Encourage their participation in meaningful activities that give them a sense of purpose. It is important to keep hope alive, and that real, lasting change is possible in the following programs:
- Intensive outpatient treatment program
- Partial hospitalization treatment program
- Extended addiction treatment
Reach Out to Sunstone Recovery Today
Located in Bend, Oregon, one of the outdoor capitals of the world, Sunstone Recovery is perfectly situated to help guide you on the path to sobriety. Currently, all of our services are being offered online via telemedicine due to covid-19 restrictions, but this makes us available to residents throughout the state. We can be reached online or at 855.833.9199 for you to take the first step on your journey to recovery.
