Pin your ears back

Pin your ears back 

The effects of addiction not only affect the person who abuses but it slowly starts affecting the family members as well. This article is for those who are caretakers or relatives of active addicts.  We needs to understand one thing about addict is , he is either preoccupied with the thought of using or completely under the influence of drug or substance 24 hours a day & likewise we as family members are thinking about substance abuse constantly, for example how much he will spend for drug/ alcohol today?  How can I control his using? What will be the affect effect? Why my loved one is like this?  All the focus or energy of ours (family members) is accumulated around the thought of substance use. We become sick.  We become suspicious about each movement addict. Many times we act very irrational like hiding bottles, confronting addict’s friends, locking the addict in room etc.

Here are some do’s & don’ts for you.

If you suspect that a friend or family member has an addiction problem, then

Speak up. Talk to the person about your concerns, and offer your help and support. The earlier addiction is treated, the better. Don’t wait for your loved one to hit rock bottom! Be prepared for excuses and denial with specific examples of behaviour that has you worried

Take care of yourself. Do not get so caught up in someone else’s addiction problem that you neglect your own needs. Make sure you have people you can talk to and lean on for support. And stay safe. Don’t put yourself in dangerous situations like blaming own self for situations or thoughts of suicide.

Avoid self-blame. You can support a person with a substance abuse problem and encourage treatment, but you can’t force an addict to change. You can’t control your loved one’s decisions. Let the person accept responsibility for his or her actions, an essential step along the way to recovery for drug addiction. 

What Not To Do

ü  Don't attempt to punish, threaten.

ü  Don't try to be a martyr. Avoid emotional appeals that may only increase feelings of guilt and the compulsion to use drugs.

ü  Don't cover up or make excuses for the drug abuser, or shield them from the negative consequences of their behaviour.

ü  Don't take over their responsibilities, leaving them with no sense of importance or dignity.

ü  Don't hide or throw out drugs.

ü  Don't argue with the person when they are high.