If someone you care about is returning from addiction treatment you may feel confused or unsure about what you can do to support them in their recovery. Sobriety is a lifelong journey and it is made much easier with the support of friends and family members. There are many ways to offer support for your loved one.
Offering acceptance and understanding is important for individuals in early recovery. They will be facing many challenges while working to create a new normal for themselves. During this time try to avoid criticism and negativity as much as possible. Instead, offer them your love, and praise them for their decision to maintain their sobriety. Also, support them in any post-treatment recommendations such as, attending aftercare or relapse prevention sessions or seeking individual or family therapy.
An environment that is free of substances or temptations is critical to long-term success in recovery. Help your loved one by removing alcohol or drug paraphernalia from their home, and encourage them to avoid places the might trigger a relapse. You should encourage total abstinence from alcohol and drugs, then support them by joining them in substance-free activities and social situations. This may even involve creating new family traditions.
In addition, you may want to help them with some of the following:
- Creating healthy habits – this could include healthy eating, exercising, getting enough sleep at night and seeking help for any mental health issues.
- Joining a support group – support groups help individuals in recovery interact with others who have been in the same situation.
- Building problem-solving skills – these skills will be important for handling life’s stress.
- Support involvement in leisure time activities – meaningful and structured activities can give an individual something to look forward to in their free time.
Planning for the possibility of a relapse is another important way to support your loved one in their recovery. Having a family plan in place, that is supported by the person in recovery, is a great way to be sure your family is prepared if a relapse should occur. Make sure you know the early warning signs of a relapse. If you have a plan in place, you’ll know how to respond in a way that supports your loved one and helps them maintain their journey in recovery.
Finally, be patient with your loved one. Recovery is a lifelong journey and a difficult process. Individuals may make mistakes or need to lean on you to get through tough times. If you offer your love and support, they are more likely to maintain their sobriety.
Rimrock believes that family members are an important part of both treatment and recovery. For more information visit our family and friends page to learn about financing options, family involvement, interventions and more. You can also reach out to our Admissions Department at 406-248-3157 or 800-227-3953. Our normal admission hours are between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. We do have staff available, however, anytime day or night to take your call.
