How to Support a Friend in Addiction Recovery, According to an Expert

How to Support a Friend in Addiction Recovery, According to an Expert

Supporting a loved one through addiction recovery can be tough, especially when you’re not sure what they really need from you. It’s about finding the right balance between being there for them and taking care of yourself too. Addiction specialist and therapist Travis Thompson has shed light on this challenging topic, offering practical advice for friends and family who wish to make a positive impact.

Thompson, who has spent years working in Tennessee rehab clinics, stresses the significant influence that close relationships can have on recovery. “Spouses, parents, siblings, and friends hold tremendous power to help or hinder someone’s progress,” he explains. However, he points out that these supporters frequently receive little to no guidance themselves, leaving many navigating this delicate role unprepared.

A key message from Thompson is that while loved ones play an important part in the healing process, they must remember that they are not responsible for the addiction. Feeling accountable for someone else’s substance abuse can lead to emotional burnout and even counterproductive behaviours.

Thompson also highlights the misconceptions surrounding some traditional support organisations, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other advocacy groups like M.A.D.D. He suggests these groups may inadvertently reinforce unhelpful stereotypes or expectations about addiction recovery, leaving supporters with inaccurate understanding of their role.

Ultimately, the advice is this: show unwavering understanding and patience, but maintain healthy boundaries. True support involves being there for someone without taking on the weight of their struggles. “Friends and family can be anchors of stability,” says Thompson, “but that starts with having a clear picture of how to help without compromising their own emotional well-being.”

If you want to support someone you care about as they recover from addiction, Thompson’s advice is a clear reminder to be kind, patient, and to understand how to help without forgetting to look after yourself too.

Source: Medium

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