When a friend or loved one develops an addiction, it can seem like a completely different person has taken their place. Addiction may feel like a taboo subject, not to be discussed or acknowledged if the relationship is to stay intact. It can be hard to know when to speak up. However, it’s also important to know how to talk to someone about their addiction, as ignoring the subject only enables the addiction. Learning how to talk to a drug addict requires care and consideration, but the effort is well worth making to help a friend start healing.

How to Talk to a Drug Addict About Addiction

Addicts may not want to talk about addiction or admit that they suffer from one. Coming to terms with addiction means accepting that they no longer fully control their lives and behavior. Few people, addict or not, have an easy time with that realization. An addict may seek to defend their actions, possibly by viewing the drug in question as a solution to a problem they have. When talking to an addict, be compassionate and listen to what they have to say. Acknowledge the problem they’re trying to solve, and suggest that there may be solutions other than drug use. It may be helpful to discuss what the drug does to a human body, as the addict might not know the consequences. Be aware that talking to someone when they are high or using will not facilitate a useful conversation. Wait until they are able to listen, consider, and respond to what you have to say.

Talking to An Addict About Treatment

At some point, learning how to talk to someone about their addiction will include the discussion of treatment options and the pursuit of addiction recovery. Remember that the addict is ultimately in charge of deciding whether to accept treatment or not. They may not want to deal with the negative aspects inherent in withdrawal from the drug, or they may be afraid that without the drug, their problems will become unbearable. Focus on talking about the benefits of addiction counseling and rehab programs. For example, alternative rehab programs in BetterAddictionCare’s nationwide recovery network include a medically assisted detox to keep clients comfortable and safe during the withdrawal period. Recovery programs also include the opportunity to speak with a counselor and develop healthier ways of dealing with problems in life. If the addict expresses interest and wants to recover, there are many ways to help them find the right type of rehabilitation facility for their unique situation. BetterAddictionCare’s pre-screening assessment makes it easy to search our nationwide recovery network for the ideal rehab center.

Deciding how to talk to a drug addict can make the difference between a confrontation and a request for help. Regardless of the outcome of the conversation, supporters must also consider their personal well-being and emotional health. If talking to an addict is unproductive or may be unsafe, it’s OK to ask for professional input. Call today or fill out our contact form for 100% confidential assistance and learn how to help yourself or a loved one get sober.

Sources

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3. Partnership to End Addiction. (2021). How to Talk with Your Loved One About Substance Use. Retrieved from https://drugfree.org/article/talk-with-your-child-about-substance-use/
4. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Drug addiction: Helping an addict loved one. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20365113
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