Alcohol use disorder is a disease; it does affect not only you but also your family. Furthermore, it can affect physical and mental health, overall stability, and finances of your family.
The environment of a home is unpredictable and tense. Some of the family members try to stop or control the addict. These are some common responses to home life.
What You Can Do
If one of your family members is suffering from addiction, it is clear that they need help. If you are reading this article, then you also have such a family member. So, If the person is unable to stop drinking despite having problems, then you should do something.
Every alcoholic often knows that their habits can cause social, legal, personal problems. But they cannot help themselves to stop drinking. You should understand that it is not the weakness but a psychological issue. You should convince them to join an alcohol rehab program.
It has been seen that most of the alcoholics deny that they have a problem. No matter how much you try, alcoholics will deny that drinking is the cause of their problems. It is also true that these people do want to live a sober life. But somehow, they are not able to gather courage. There are several things that you can do to help and support your loved ones.
Understand Alcohol Dependence
You and your loved ones need to understand the disease of alcoholism. It can help you understand the behaviour of your loved ones. By understand their condition, you will stop blaming them.
But if an alcoholic wants to recover, he or she needs to take responsibility for their actions. You should gather all the information related to alcoholism and its symptoms.
Speak to Them in A Non-Accusatory Way
Well, we know this conversation is difficult. But you need to plan what you are going to say. Furthermore, you should wait until your loved one is sober and emotionally stable. You should also be calm when you talk with the drinker.
In your first conversation, you should show them that you care and want to help them. It is essential, to be honest about your concerns, such as how drinking is affecting their health and family. You can also talk about any arising problem from their alcohol use disorder.
Let them know that you will be there to help them stop drinking. Furthermore, find a treatment program and a facility.
In most cases, the first attempt is not effective, and you need intervention. Most of the drinkers want to stop, but it is not easy as it is a lifelong process. In such a case, you should ask other family members and friends that the person trusts to intervene. These people should explain the consequences of alcoholism. These consequences can be like refusing to pick up the personal and financial messes that addict is creating. You can also take their child visitation rights, ask to leave home and spouse separation.