How to Help Someone Who is Detoxing
Learning how to help someone who is detoxing can be a difficult task. However, this decision could be the turning point in their journey toward recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, our drug and alcohol detox programs in Port St. Lucie, FL can help you. We provide each client with access to essential tools and expert advice needed to conquer addiction and pursue a fulfilling and healthy life.
Addiction Treatment in Port St. Lucie, FL
Addiction is a chronic disease that can be treated effectively. Despite the common misconception, addiction is not a reflection of weakness or lack of willpower. It is a severe disease that alters the brain’s functioning.
Multiple strategies exist to address addiction and substance use disorders, including behavioral therapies, medication, and supportive networks. Starting drug or alcohol detox early is crucial to improve the likelihood of a successful recovery. In fact, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health report that 21.7 million people require or receive regular substance use disorder treatment.
Questions to Ask Before Seeking Treatment
As you prepare to speak with your loved one about finding treatment, take a moment to reflect and ask yourself a few key questions to ensure effective communication:
Is It Appropriate for Me to Help This Person?
When deciding whether you can offer assistance to someone, always take into account your relationship with that person and your ability to help. It’s important to communicate that you respect their boundaries and not overstep.
What is the Best Treatment Option For a Loved One?
Conduct thorough research on addiction and the various treatment options available such as inpatient rehab or outpatient treatment. By educating yourself on addiction treatment, you can help your loved one make informed decisions about their treatment.
Are There Any Mental Health Issues Present?
It’s important to recognize that mental health challenges can play a role in addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, make sure to consider any underlying mental health concerns. For example, clinical depression typically involves symptoms like withdrawing from friends and losing interest in activities one used to enjoy, and these symptoms persist for a much longer period.
For someone to be diagnosed with clinical depression, the symptoms must last at least two weeks and demonstrate a change in one’s previous level of functioning, states the American Psychiatric Association.
Dual diagnosis treatment is used to treat people with a co-occurring mental health and substance use disorder. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, around 7.9 million adults in the United States have a co-occurring disorder.
How Long is Detox?
The length of treatment depends on a variety of factors. But how long is detox? Detox can take anywhere from days to months depending on a client’s level of addiction. Once you receive an evaluation from a professional, they can provide an accurate answer to this question.
What Is Your Loved One's Current Situation?
Selecting a time when your loved one is not under the influence of drugs or alcohol is key. This will allow for a more productive and meaningful conversation.
What Are Your Goals for This Conversation?
It is important to have realistic expectations for this conversation. For example, your goal might be simply getting your loved one to agree to go to treatment.
What Is the Best Time and Place for This Conversation?
Consider the best time and place for this conversation. Choosing a time when your loved one is not under the influence of drugs or alcohol is important.
What Do You Need to Say?
Be prepared to have an open and honest conversation as to why you feel your loved one could benefit from treatment.
What To Avoid When Approaching Your Loved One
To achieve the desired outcome, there are certain things to avoid when deciding how to help someone who is detoxing. These include:
- Judgmental statements
- Ultimatums
- Threats
- Anything that could be interpreted as scare tactics
How to Get Help for Your Loved One
Feeling uncertain about how to seek help for your loved one who is in need of alcohol or drug detox? If you’re experiencing a sense of powerlessness, consider exploring the following:
- Call a helpline: There are many helplines available to help you. These include the National Addiction Helpline and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline.
- Talk to a treatment provider: Reach out to a treatment provider about your options. This a great starting point for those who don't know where to begin.
- Go to a support group: Many support groups are available for families and friends of addicted loved ones. These groups offer valuable resources regarding recovery information and support.
- Get help from the government: The government offers many resources to help families and friends of addicted loved ones. You can find information about these resources on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website.
Ready to get started?
Give us a call today. Our admissions coordinators will answer any questions you may have about our program and walk you through the admissions process.
What Can I Do if My Loved One Isn’t Ready for Treatment?
- Offer support: One way to show support to a loved one is by simply being present for them and actively listening to what they have to say.
- Get help for yourself: Dealing with the addiction of a loved one can be extremely taxing on those close to the individual. It is important to take care of yourself during this time. Consider seeking support for yourself or attending support groups for help.
- Be patient: Your loved one may not be ready for treatment right away. But that doesn't mean you should give up hope. Remain patient with your loved one and try again when the time feels right.
- Avoid enabling: To prevent enabling your loved one, refrain from providing them with money or any items that could be used to purchase drugs or alcohol.
- Set boundaries: Establishing boundaries with your loved ones is essential. This involves clearly communicating what actions you are willing and unwilling to take as they battle with addiction.
- Get help from a professional: If you're uncertain about where to begin, seeking assistance from a professional is a viable option.
Receive Treatment at Agape Detox Center in Port St. Lucie, FL
If you’re finding it difficult to support a family member or friend who is struggling with addiction, don’t suffer alone. Learn about Agape Detox Center and find a program that best fits your needs. We provide comprehensive, individualized treatment to each of our clients.
If you or a loved one are interested in our treatment services, please contact us today. Our team is here to guide you and your loved one to lasting recovery, one step at a time.
- November 25, 2022
- Updated Date: December 13, 2023
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Have any questions?
Stephanie Catalano is an accomplished Clinical Director at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. With a Master of Social Work degree, LCSW license, and extensive training in Rapid Resolution Therapy under her belt, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her unique combination of education and experience allows her to provide exceptional care to clients and lead her team with confidence. Stephanie’s joy comes from witnessing the moments when her patients creatively connect the dots and bravely move toward reclaiming their power. Her purpose is to help individuals understand their past so they can create a future full of hope, growth, and success. Stephanie attributes a large portion of her success to the supportive culture and strong sense of community fostered by the Agape team.
