How to Deal with an Alcoholic or Drug Addict

It’s difficult to watch someone you love succumb under the weight of a drinking problem. A lot of people find themselves just sitting by, watching it happen. For sure, that’s not how to deal with an alcoholic. There are far better and more productive ways to be of service to our loved ones. Given the plight of the alcoholic, it’s up to someone else to be strong and to make a difference.

How to Deal With an Alcoholic

You don’t want to become codependent. If you do, you will find yourself dealing with the same issues as your loved one. Instead, we want you to consider doing whatever it takes to get your loved one into treatment. We know it does no good to take them kicking and screaming. What you need is a commonsense approach.

Here’s a list of how to deal with an alcoholic in the most productive way possible:

Confrontation–There’s no harm in letting your loved one know that you know what’s going on. You are undoubtedly aware of the signs of alcohol addiction.

Set Boundaries–You want to make it clear precisely what behaviors you won’t tolerate. Make sure they understand the consequences of violating your boundaries.

Don’t Soften the Blow–If your loved one encounters trouble, let them feel and live with the consequences. If they hit rock bottom, they might get the message.

Be Supportive–If they indicate they want help, be supportive and help them find the way to alcoholic treatment.

Protect Yourself–Above all else, make sure you are okay. Don’t let the alcoholic’s problems become your problems.

Supporting Treatment

It takes a lot of courage for someone to admit they have an illness and need help. If your loved one is serious about getting treatment, they deserve an opportunity to get help. They might need your help because they probably aren’t functioning at a high level. If you can put the problems they caused behind you, you might well be the difference maker. Give them at least that first chance to right their wrongs.

Turning Treatment Over to Beaches Recovery

Beaches Recovery specializes in the treatment of alcoholism. We offer an alcohol detox program as well as treatment programs we tailor to meet the patient’s needs. Here’s a short list of the many treatment options we offer:

• Outpatient care
• Residential drug rehab
• Family therapy
• Dual diagnosis treatment
• Relapse prevention plan

We hope the information above will make a difference. It should give you a good idea of how to deal with an alcoholic. We would be glad to help your loved one get through the treatment process. For more information, you can contact Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida at 866.605.0532. There is no time like now to help your loved one into recovery.