True Stories of Addiction: Kallie

How to Cope with A Loved Ones Drug Abuse

There is no reason to hide in the dark about drugs – the more you comprehend about the statistics and facts on drug abuse, the more understanding you will be about what your loved one is going through and how they can overcome their problem.

If you are unsure your loved one is abusing or has an addiction, having education on the matter will help you identify actions, behaviors and health issues your loved one may have that is associated with drug abuse and addiction.

Remember, Drug Addiction is A Disease

It is vital that you understand and know that drug addiction is in fact a disease. The individual who is falling behind in their life due to drug addiction may not be able to handle this problem without professional help. With you being close to the individual who is using, you need to understand you cannot stop the drug abuse yourself. Friends and family can help the individual by not enabling them and making it sure they actively avoid the abuse. It is a good idea to talk with your loved one and encourage them to get the treatment and help they deserve.

Talking with Your Loved One

It is normal to feel angry, frustrated, upset or even embarrassed of your loved one’s drug problem. You need to keep in mind, whatever you’re going through, it is okay to feel upset and hurt. These emotions don’t control your life, let your loved one know how their abuse is making you feel. Getting honest about how you are feeling may let them open up on how there are feeling about their own abuse, too. When you listen to your loved one about their drug abuse, keep in mind it is a disease. You need to listen and respect what they have to say, you don’t know how they are feeling on the inside. Allowing them to open up will also help them face their problem.

Make Time for You

Dealing with a loved one’s substance abuse problem is going to be time consuming and no matter how much it is consuming your life, you need to make time to take care of yourself so you are more of a help to them when they need it. There is no reason you should feel guilty about doing things you enjoy while knowing your loved one is out using and abusing drugs. If the situation becomes too much of a distraction, get help for yourself. Tell a friend, counselor or therapist. This will allow you space from the situation and help you cope.

There is Hope

Although your loved one may seem hopeless, there is hope and help if they want it. In Kallie’s story, she wanted help but was too afraid to ask. Her sister was in treatment and felt all the attention was put on her. So, regardless who is struggling, never feel that your problem isn’t important to others. You matter just the way everyone else does. Get help today!