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November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor the many individuals who offer care, support, and compassion to loved ones dealing with health issues, including those with a substance use disorder (SUD).
Taking care of someone with an SUD can be tough, often requiring you to deal with uncertainty, manage your feelings, and provide encouragement for your loved one to seek assistance. Your support is crucial, but it’s also vital to look after your own well-being. Here are some ways caregivers can help while also taking care of themselves.
- Understand Substance Use Disorders
Gaining insight into what your loved one is experiencing allows you to react with compassion rather than annoyance. SUD is a health issue, not a personal failure or lack of determination. Familiarizing yourself with the science behind SUD can aid in identifying triggers, behaviors, and treatment possibilities.
- Show Empathy but Avoid Enabling
Offering support doesn’t mean shielding them from the outcomes of their choices. Aim to listen without judgment, establish healthy limits, and steer clear of behaviors that might unintentionally promote ongoing substance use. Encourage responsibility and recognize even the smallest steps toward recovery, even if they seem slow.
- Promote Seeking Professional Help
Motivate your loved one to pursue formal treatment, whether it’s through an inpatient, outpatient, or virtual outpatient program. If they’re reluctant, reassure them that various care options are available to match their unique schedule and requirements.
- Prioritize Your Mental Health
Supporting someone facing addiction can be draining, so caregivers also need to prioritize their own mental health. You can’t give what you don’t have, making it vital for caregivers to look after their own needs first. If you start feeling overwhelmed, consider therapy or counseling to assist in managing stress during tough times.
- Acknowledge Hope and Achievements
Every step taken toward recovery, whether it’s attending therapy sessions, avoiding substances, or showing a willingness to seek support, deserves recognition. Acknowledging these achievements boosts motivation and reinforces the idea that recovery is achievable.
Support is Available
If your loved one is struggling with substance use, you can reach out at 877-505-HOPE.
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