CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Parkridge Valley counselor Tony Neuhoff knows how hard it can be to approach a friend or loved one about a suspected drug or alcohol addiction, so he offers the following tips for those ready to take the step towards helping someone seek treatment.
Choose the right opportunity to talk. Make sure you approach your loved one at a time when you both are straight and sober and can speak without embarrassment or interruption – this is very important to a successful intervention, according to Neuhoff. “Also, it’s a good idea to think beforehand about who needs to be involved. The person who reaches out to an addict in an intervention needs to be the individual that the addicted person respects most. Is there someone else that might also be a good resource for reaching out to your loved one? If so, ask that person to reach out with you or instead of you.”
Be as supportive and non-judgmental as possible, and be prepared for a negative reaction. Most individuals with an addiction problem will become hostile or defensive when approached about their issue. “Encourage your loved one to be open and honest with you,” recommends Neuhoff. “Use a calm, neutral tone when communicating, and listen actively.” Explain your concerns in a caring manner, and be prepared to offer information about treatment options. Don’t expect gratitude from someone you are trying to help – if you receive thanks, it will likely be after they’ve acknowledged their issues and sought treatment.
Don’t do anything to support the habits of the addict. If your loved one is missing work or falling behind on bills, do not make excuses or provide financial support. “If addicts do not face the consequences of their addictions, there is no incentive to change or admit that there is really a problem,” notes Neuhoff.
Remember, you cannot force someone to seek help. People will only really commit to recovery when they are doing it by themselves, for themselves.
“It can be hard to approach and empathize with someone facing an addiction, but a caring and supportive intervention can help someone make the choice to seek help and take the first step toward recovery,” notes Neuhoff. “You can save someone’s life.”
Parkridge Valley offers a free confidential online mental health assessment, available at ParkridgeValley.com. For more information on supportive services and addiction treatment options, call RESPOND at (423) 499-2300.