Dealing with Addiction is not an easy job at all. Addiction is a difficult stage that begins as abuse, or using a substance like marijuana or cocaine. Gradually it gets out of control and reaches a stage, where the addicted person is not able to control his/her actions without taking any drugs. They need a constant supply of drugs to keep themselves moving. A person has no control over his addiction requirements whether he or she uses drugs or drinks.
How to Deal with Addiction is an important question that often arises when in the minds of the family members of addicts or those who are themselves dealing with addiction. Addicts do not possess a normal behavior and therefore dealing with addiction becomes even more vital and crucial to improve the condition of the addict. In case you are still worried about how to deal with addiction, you can do the following:
Do not add to the problem
People with addiction try to hide their painful feelings of anxiety, stress, aloneness, emptiness and loneliness with the help of drugs. Therefore if you are dealing with an addict, you will have to be very supportive and caring towards him/her.
Do not be judgmental towards them
Do not ever cover up for them
Do not be dismissive toward their problem when they approach you
Do not blame yourself for being responsible for their situation. Rather than losing hope, take control of the situation.
Accept your areas of negligence
If anyone in the family has resorted to drugs or alcohol for comfort, he/she must have felt lack of support and care at a particular time. Regardless of how you might have contributed to this situation, you will have to convince the addicted person to get out of the addiction. As you cannot help anyone unless the person is ready to receive help.
Try to step out of our own comfort level and discover the needs of the addict
You must focus on the problems of the addicted person rather indulging in your own feelings of self-pity and your needs. Remember the one, who needs support and care, should be your first priority.
Show more love and care towards the addict
After realizing your mistakes, it is time to rectify them. The addicted person needs special care, love and support, not only from you, but from other family members as well. All your efforts should be centered towards helping the addicted person, come out of his addiction. It is a very difficult job and you will have to take entire responsibility of influencing the addicts towards the process of rehabilitation.
Encourage him/her to join Drug Addiction Support groups
You can encourage him/her to join Drug Addiction Support groups at your local community centre or even the online support forums like AddictionTribe.com. These support groups are very helpful in the treatment process. Addicts feel supported and encouraged by sharing their concern with other group members.
