Originally Published December 2023
Watching someone you love battle addiction can leave you feeling helpless, heartbroken, and unsure of what to do next.
Whether it’s alcohol, opioids, or other drugs, addiction affects not just the individual but their entire circle of family and friends. You might feel tempted to shut down, back away, or hope the problem resolves on its own.
But the truth is, ignoring the issue can do more harm than good to the person struggling and to those who care about them. The most powerful thing you can do is to stay present, informed, and supportive.
It won’t always be easy. But you don’t have to do it alone.
First: Understand What Addiction Is
Before you can support someone through recovery, it helps to understand how addiction works.
Addiction is complex. It isn’t just about how often someone uses a substance; it’s about why they’re using it. For some, it might start with curiosity, coping with trauma or emotional pain, pressure from peers, or even an attempt to improve physical performance.
Not everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted, but certain risk factors make someone more vulnerable:
- Family history of addiction
- History of trauma, abuse, or neglect
- Co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or anxiety
Understanding these root causes helps replace frustration with compassion and creates a path toward meaningful support.
5 Ways to Support a Loved One Facing Addiction
1. Educate Yourself About Addiction
One of the most important steps you can take is simply learning about addiction. Understand the signs, the symptoms, and the science behind it. The more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to recognize warning signs and provide real, empathetic support.
2. Offer Genuine Support
Addiction often makes people feel isolated, ashamed, or unworthy of love. Remind your loved one they are not alone. Show them, through words and actions, that you care deeply and are willing to walk alongside them.
Support can be as simple as checking in regularly, listening without judgment, and showing up – even when it’s hard.
3. Encourage Them to Get Help
Addiction is a disease, and like any illness, early treatment makes a difference. Speak with your loved one about seeking help, but do so with patience and compassion.
Avoid blame or shame. Instead, express concern and offer to help find resources or even go with them to appointments. If you’re unsure how to approach the conversation, consider working with an intervention specialist for guidance.
4. Stay Involved in Their Recovery
Recovery doesn’t end when treatment begins – it’s a journey. Whether your loved one is in therapy, taking medication, or attending support groups, your ongoing encouragement can make all the difference.
Offer to attend meetings with them, help them build healthy routines, and remind them that progress isn’t always linear. Celebrate their wins, no matter how small.
5. Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself
Supporting someone through addiction can take a toll. It’s emotionally exhausting – and that’s okay to admit.
Make sure you’re tending to your own needs, too:
- Get enough sleep
- Eat nourishing foods
- Exercise
- Talk to a therapist or join a support group
You can’t pour from an empty cup. By caring for yourself, you’ll be in a better position to care for others.
Finding Help for Addiction in Rhode Island
If you’re in the Rhode Island area, Butler Hospital offers compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals and families affected by addiction. Our dedicated team of specialists is here to help – whether you’re seeking support for a loved one or looking for guidance on how to start the recovery process.
Need help now?
Call the Behavioral Health Service Call Center anytime, 24/7, at: 1 (844) 401-0111
Learn more about our treatment programs and services at Butler Hospital.
