Starting a conversation about addiction can be challenging. What if you take the wrong approach? What if you hurt their feelings? Any of these worries might run through your mind when you think of talking about prescription drug addiction. However, the important thing is to let your loved one know that you care, not to find the precise words that will guarantee the perfect reaction.
Once the channels of communication are open, help is available with Groups.
Learn a few common signs of addiction
It’s common not to be sure if a loved one is facing dependence or addiction. It’s a complex situation that doesn’t always show up the same way in people’s lives. But knowing how addiction can show up is a good place to start when trying to support someone you love.
Common signs of addiction can include:
- Having new difficulties with work, school, relationships, or their health
- Running out of prescription medication before a refill is available
- Taking medication more frequently or in increasing quantities
- Wishing to quit but being unable to do so
- Showing symptoms of withdrawal when medication isn’t available
Other signs and withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the type of medication being used, like opioids, benzodiazepines, or stimulants. However, people using different medications may share symptoms like cravings, irritability, and malaise. Withdrawal can affect people who have taken prescription medication exactly as instructed, as well as people who have taken medication for recreational purposes. Try to avoid assumptions or judgments about your loved one’s medication use.
Remember that your job as a support person isn’t to judge, shame, or watch over someone’s behaviors. Always try to lead with compassion and understand what they’re going through the best you can.
Plan a compassionate conversation in 5 ways
Talking to a loved one about substances can be tough, but planning can help. Here are five ways to plan the discussion.
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Ask yourself: “When?”
Talking to someone as soon as you see them might be tempting. However, this may feel like an ambush. Instead of doing this, ask them if they have time to talk sometime soon.
Until then, you can take the opportunity to learn more about substance use and addiction. You might learn about support groups for family members, the stages of recovery, or what long-term recovery can look like.
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Ask yourself: “Where?”
Imagine that the tables turn, and someone wants to raise a sensitive topic with you. Would you like this to happen in a public place, where someone might overhear you? Would you prefer to speak one-on-one or with other friends or family present?
Think about what the person you’re speaking with might prefer. Choosing a familiar place where the conversation will be private is a safe bet. Consider whether another person should be present, and what they should know before the conversation starts.
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Ask yourself: “How?”
Try to ask open-ended questions without making assumptions. Listen actively and avoid language that might sound judgmental.
There is so much stigma around addiction that people may feel shame, guilt, or judgment when discussing it. Be open to what your loved one tells you and work hard not to let stigma color what you say. Focus on simply being a safe space for them to share what they’re going through.
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What happens next?
If your loved one shares that they are open to treatment or recovery, you can find out about options together. They may discuss the next steps they want to take. These could look like outpatient treatment, inpatient treatment, or support groups. They may want to take FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder.
The professionals at Groups offer a variety of treatment options. For more information, you or your loved one can reach out to us. We’ll be happy to share what we can do.
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What if the conversation doesn’t go well?
Sometimes, things don’t go how you want them to go, even when you do your best. Even if your conversation doesn’t end the way that you want it to, you have expressed to your loved one that you are there for them.
After a nonjudgmental, open conversation, they can know that you’re a trustworthy person to talk to in the future. You have shown that you have their back and you will support them. Let them know that you’re available if they want to talk later. You may try starting the conversation again if you see worsening signs of a substance use disorder, behavior changes or health challenges.
Groups offers support for your friends and family members with SUD
As you might know all too well, substance use disorder doesn’t only affect the person living with it. It has effects on you, as a friend or family member who is concerned about a loved one. Substance use can lead to unique issues that others without your experience may not understand. That’s why peer support can be helpful.
Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today at 888-858-1723 for more information or to help your loved one begin recovery. When they are ready, you can share the gift of recovery. We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups does not offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
