Having a loved one recovering from alcoholism recovery can feel isolating. However, the truth is that there are approximately 76 million Americans that have been exposed to this problem in the family. Approximately 1 in 5 people lived with this growing up. The pandemic era has triggered an increase in anxiety and depression and with that an increase in alcohol consumption. You are not alone, and your loved one isn’t either.

If you are reading this, you’ve already taken the important step of deciding that you want to be there for them during this time. That’s the most important step! At https://milehighcontinuingcare.com/ we want you to know that we are there for you too. Your love is going to be an important part of their health and wellness for a long time. Here’s how you can help your loved ones during recovery.

Take the Family Approach

Support at the family level is a must-have for everyone recovering from this. Before they leave treatment, knowing that is half the battle for them. All they need to know is that you are going to be there for them without judgment. That’s the family approach.

It may be the case where your loved one isn’t a blood relative, that’s okay. Family is non-judgemental love. The effects of this problem have probably been felt by you during this crisis in their life. Being there for them and helping them through this is the way to show them that you are all healing together.

Prepare for Problems

One of the biggest concerns for everyone leaving treatment, and for their loved ones, is the uncertainty over potential problems ahead. Plan for these ahead of time. Find out what they need, and work through those problems together.

They may need a ride to treatment, and be too embarrassed to talk about that. Offer them a ride, so they don’t have to worry about asking. If they are still in treatment, visit them when you can. They just need to know that someone loves them and is willing to be there with them through this time. This tells your loved one that you are invested in them still as human beings and can make all the difference in their motivation to succeed when they leave treatment.

Help Them Find Resources

Your loved one is probably interested in living an independent lifestyle as soon as possible. They want to show you, and all of their loved ones that they can do it. Help them with what they need to get back on their feet. Don’t do it for them. Even if they are okay with that.

Drive them to job interviews, help them look for an apartment, or help them arrange food plans. Don’t be pushy about it, but just let them know you want them to succeed and will be there for them with whatever they need.

Teams at recovery centers are there to help you plan your support for your loved one if you need us. Call us or connect with us for more support ideas.