Supporting A Family Member In Addiction Recovery

It simply cannot be overstated on how difficult and painful it can be to see one of your loved ones suffering from a substance abuse problem. The best case scenario is when they can come to terms with their issue and immediately enter treatment to achieve the ultimate goal of sobriety. During this time, one of the greatest motivators comes from knowing that they will continue to have your support through it all. Family and friends function as the backbone of the recovery platform and can strengthen your resolve to continue onward on the road to recovery.  Surfside Structured Sober Living is fully aware of the value that family adds to the lives of our patients in a men’s recovery program. As such, it’s important that you have the right tools and thought processes in mind, when attempting to support your loved one during this challenging time in their life. Here are some strategies to use for addiction family support.

Showing No Judgment

It’s not uncommon for an individual in recovery to feel like they are being judged, and yes, this includes those in their inner circle. The fear of being judged can actually have serious effects on the recovery process. If you are going to support your loved one in a men’s recovery program, then do so with an open-mind and the utmost respect. Continually remind them that they are strong for staying grounded in their sobriety. The recovery process is a long one, and at some point your loved one may feel demotivated to continue and may stop treatment, altogether. It’s okay to experience roadblocks during the course of treatment. Don’t dismiss their efforts made up until this point. Continue to show love and support until they get back on track.

Encourage Them To Maintain Healthy Habits

Your physical, mental, and emotional health should be harmoniously in sync when in the midst of recovery. Self-care practices and routines should continually be maintained. If your family member’s motivation is tapering off, it’s very easy to function as a pillar of strength to keep them going. Whether they find joy from cooking, meditating, or running, not only should you support them, but find a way to join in on the fun. Most of these activities can be equally if not more exciting when you have a partner that joins you and pushes you in the right direction. 

Check In On Their Treatment Program

This is contingent on the disorder and the level of disorder or addiction, but if your loved one is expected to endure extensive treatment for a long period of time, routinely checking in on them is another way to show that you care. Here are some steps you can take when visiting someone in a men’s recovery program:

• Plan to scheduled your visits at the treatment center
• Offer to drive them to their meetings
• Schedule family counseling sessions whenever it’s needed or recommended. This can help create awareness about how family dynamics have been impacted by the disorder or addiction. 
• Attend family support groups. Support groups are a great environment for learning how to take care of yourself during the recovery process. They will also equip you with the knowledge on how to stop enabling addictive behaviors.
• Consider participating in your own individual therapy

Educating Yourself On Addiction

Relapse is always a strong possibility at any point during the recovery journey. Because of this, it’s imperative that you stay the course and educate yourself on the disease that is addiction. In doing so, it will become easier for you to discern the signs and symptoms of relapse before it occurs, as well as how to address the situation with compassion and understanding. If you begin to notice any signs of relapse, take action immediately!

Addiction Family Support in a Men’s Recovery Program

Addiction family support is key in improving recovery outcomes. Having family in your corner during this difficult period of time is vital. Surfside is a firm believer in supplying our patients and families with the resources to keep the interpersonal dynamic intact. For more information on how to get started with our men’s recovery program, contact us today!