Recovering from addiction is one of the most challenging things to go through and often is a life-long process that looks different for every individual. Addiction recovery requires a comprehensive treatment approach and a combination of therapy, medication, and usually a stay in a rehabilitation program.
Although the road to recovery is not easy, being surrounded by family, friends, and other loved ones can make the healing journey from substance abuse a bit easier. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, involving family and loved ones as part of one’s support system in recovery can increase the success of treatment outcomes [1].
Supporting a loved one in addiction recovery often requires patience, compassion, empathy, and boundary-setting. Read on to understand how the addicted brain works and strategies to effectively support your loved one recovering from substance abuse.
The Biology of Addiction: Breaking The Stigma
Addiction is a widespread public health problem across the US, affecting around 48 million people each year [2]. Growing neurobiological research and advanced imaging technology such as fMRI and PET scans continue to confirm that addiction is a complex biological disease affecting multiple regions of the brain.
Some of the areas affected include:
- Basal Ganglia: Group of subcortical nuclei deep in the brain responsible for executive functioning, pleasure, reward, and motivation. Drugs and alcohol overload the circuits in the basal ganglia, leading to habitual use of substances and playing a key role in addiction [2].
- Prefrontal Cortex (PFC): Large region of the brain that plays a key role in emotional regulation, planning and organization, problem-solving skills, decision-making, and impulse control. Growing research shows that chronic drug use reduces functioning in the PFC, leading to the loss of inhibitory control of drug-seeking behaviors [3].
- Extended Amygdala: Small region of the brain that controls anxiety, stress, and fear responses. It is designed to protect us during dangerous or life-threatening situations, but is sometimes activated when no threat is present, such as during the withdrawal process from substance abuse. After the high of drugs wears off, the amygdala plays a role in the discomfort and anxiety that one often experiences during detox [2].
Understanding some of the biological processes behind addiction can help break the historical stigma that it is a moral issue or conscious choice. Addiction can happen to anyone and is not a character flaw—it’s important to keep this in mind when supporting a loved one during addiction recovery.
Ways To Support A Loved One in Addiction Recovery
It can feel distressing knowing your loved one is struggling with addiction. Although we want to help, knowing where to start or how to do it can sometimes be overwhelming. Below, we have provided eight ways that can help you support a friend, family member, or loved one on their road to recovery from substance abuse.
Educate Yourself About Addiction
Having a basic understanding of what leads to addiction and how the addicted brain works can provide loved ones with clarity on why someone may fall into the cycle of addiction. Harmful stigmas and stereotypes around addiction still exist, and these contribute to feelings of shame and guilt, which may prevent people struggling with addiction from reaching out for help.
Some helpful resources to teach you about addiction include:
- SAMSHA
- World Health Organization Resources for Substance Abuse
- DEA Recovery Resources
- National Institue on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
- National Institue on Drug Abuse
Actively Listen and Provide Non-Judgemental Support
People struggling with substance abuse are often coping with underlying mental health challenges, trauma, and emotional pain. Research has also shown that isolation can increase the risk of substance abuse [4].
After therapy sessions, meetings, and “rules” they receive during addiction treatment, sometimes all they need is someone to listen to them and validate how they are feeling. This can foster a sense of support, connection, and reduce feelings of isolation.
Be Patient
Recovery from drug and alcohol addiction is not linear. There are setbacks, risks for relapse, and challenges that often arise during recovery. It takes time, commitment and self-discipline. Try to practice patience, understanding that your loved one is attempting to rebuild a new life for themselves and that it may not happen overnight.
Provide A Distraction
It’s normal to experience cravings during recovery, especially during times of stress. These are normal, and sometimes, the best way to support your loved one is to provide a distraction.
One of the hardest things for people in recovery is learning how to have fun without drugs or alcohol. Encourage them to join you for an activity that you both enjoy and can.
Vocalize Your Support
Sometimes, feelings of shame, embarrassment, guilt, or stigma can hinder people from reaching out for support. Instead of waiting for your loved one to come to you, consider vocalizing your support directly to them. Let them know you’re there to support them and help in whatever way you can.
Join A Support Group
Just like support groups exist for people recovering from addiction, there are also resources for their loved ones. There are a variety of support groups designed for loved ones of addicts, including parents, siblings, children, and spouses. Some helpful support groups for loved ones of patients in recovery include:
- Nar-Anon
- Parents of Addicted Loved Ones
- Families Anonymous
- SMART Recovery Family & Friends
- NAMI Family Support Group
Set Boundaries
It’s important to remember that setting boundaries isn’t selfish. While it’s normal to want to be there 24/7 for your loved one, it’s okay to prioritize your own time, energy, and mental health. Remind them that you support them, even if you can’t always be physically or emotionally present.
Stay compassionate, but allow yourself to express your own needs. Below are a few examples of boundary-setting statements you can use with loved ones:
- “I am not able to talk about this right now, can we speak about this at a better time?”
- “I’d love to help but I can’t commit to this right now.”
- “I can help with X, but not Y.”
- “I am unable to be of support at the moment, but can I help you contact another one of your supports?”
- “I can’t support you in this way, but I can support you by doing this” (offering an alternative)
Practice Self-Care
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed when supporting someone you care about with addiction. Don’t forget to practice self-care and take time for yourself. If you are struggling with your own mental well-being, it can be hard to act as a support for others. As the saying goes, “you can’t pour from an empty cup.”
Some ways to practice self-care include:
- Practice mindfulness
- Journal how you feel
- Make sure you have your own support system
- Indulge in an activity you enjoy
Addiction Detox and Residential Treatment in Michigan
Rushton Recovery understands the complex nature of drug & alcohol recovery. We prioritize your well-being, safety, and comfort during treatment. Our detox and residential treatment center in Michigan offers a healing space to embark on your journey toward sobriety.
We offer evidence-based therapies designed to evolve with your individual needs and address the root of your substance abuse. Let our team help you get clean, repair relationships, and equip you with the skills to achieve long-term recovery. Reach out to our Admissions team now.
Sources
[1] Family Involvement in Treatment and Recovery for Substance Use Disorders among Transition-Age Youth: Research Bedrocks and Opportunities. 2021. National Institute of Mental Health.
[2] Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction. 2020. National Institue on Drug Abuse.
[3] Researchers Analyze Cocaine-induced Adaptations in the Medial Prefrontal Cortex. University of Minnesota Medical School.
[4] Emotional and Social Loneliness in Individuals With and Without Substance Dependence Disorder. 2014. National Library of Medicine.