Interventionists of New Jersey Offer Advice to Families Dealing with Addicts

CHERRY HILL, N.J. - Nov. 18, 2013 - PRLog -- When an individual struggling with substance abuse does not want to change their destructive behaviors or does not know how to, it can cause those that care deeply about them a lot of pain. Many times, those abusing drugs or alcohol are also facing imminent health, social or legal issues and their family feels the stress of wanting to help before something terrible happens. This is a heavy burden to carry as a family member who only wants to the best for their loved one. There are many ways that someone abusing drugs and/or alcohol can stress and hurt their family members including:

·         Degrading work, family and interpersonal relationships

·         Lying

·         Incidents with the law

·         Theft of money or personal belongings

·         Poor health due to substance abuse

·         Disregarding feelings of family members

4 Pieces of Advice for Family Members Trying to Cope with Addiction

It’s very easy for to become overwhelmed by emotions and stress related to the negative actions of someone in their family who is an addict. Our interventionists in New Jersey offer the following advice to family members of those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction.

1.       Let them know how their actions are hurting you and your family. Many times, those who are abusing substances live in a world far from reality and they do not see how bad they hurt loved one around them; or they just don’t care. Express to them your feelings about their drug and/or alcohol use.

2.       Don’t help them. Do not let them borrow money to feed their addiction. Do not pick up their slack if they are failing to meet responsibilities at work or with your family members.

3.       Do not make their drinking or drug problem a joke. It’s easy to laugh at things that make you feel sad or uncomfortable, but do your best to make sure that your family member who is abusing drugs or alcohol knows that you think that they have a serious problem.

4.       Know when to walk away. Many times, an addict will dig themselves into such a deep hole with their actions that it is impossible for anyone but themselves and professionals to help them with their addiction. As hard as it may seem, you must distance yourself from the feeling that it is your fault or that you can save them.

As a family member of an addict, the only thing you can do is offer is your support and your love. Sometimes, this will just not be enough. Make sure to take care of your own health and well-being first and seek professional help for your loved one if and when you consider them a lost cause.

Visit http://tristatetreatmentconnections.com/ for more information.