Addiction, also known as substance use disorder (SUD), is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), as a chronic, relapsing neurological disorder. The Mayo Clinic explains addiction as a disease “that affects a person’s brain and behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medication” without regard for consequence. Addiction is a mental health condition that compels an individual to prioritize satisfying his or her substance cravings above all else. This can wreak havoc in all facets of one’s life, causing a plethora of adverse effects, including physiological complications, relationship fractures, financial strain, legal challenges, employment issues, and more. Addiction is a disease that is comprised of recurring stages that progress in a repetitive pattern until some form of treatment takes place to intervene and alleviate the addiction. The nuances and complex nature of addiction can make knowing how to provide a loved one with effective support confusing. However, research suggests that your loved one will likely have a greater chance of overcoming addiction with your support. There are several ways you can help someone recover from addiction, some of which include:
- Educate yourself: Learning about the five stages of addiction, common methods of treatment, and long-term recovery can help you relate to and support your loved one on their path of recovery.
- Do not enable: Enabling behaviors allow an individual struggling with addiction to continue to engage in substance abuse behaviors, as the addict becomes void of responsibility.
- Role model healthy daily habits: Engage in regular physical activity, obtain ample sleep, eat nutritiously, practice self-care, etc.
- Know when to get help and get it: As a loved one of an individual struggling with addiction, it is imperative to be aware of your own limitations and recognize that your loved one may be dealing with certain issues that extend beyond your abilities.
According to a 2019 national survey, 20.4 million Americans had experienced a substance use disorder over the past year, and data from the previous year revealed that only about one-tenth of individuals with SUD received the treatment they needed. The best way to help someone with substance use disorder is to be able to recognize its warning signs and ultimately encourage them to pursue treatment.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcomed to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
