The Best Way to Approach the Subject of Addiction

Many people have a lot of misconceptions about addiction, and many people have a lot of intense feelings and big opinions about addiction. Those things together are a recipe for disaster. When these people start acting out or sharing their opinions about addiction, they can say harmful and damaging things to their loved ones who are addicts, potentially sending them into a self-destructive cycle or preventing them from getting the help they need.

If you suspect that your loved one has an addiction, it’s important that you educate yourself about it so that you know how to approach the subject and what you can do to help. You’ll have a much better chance of helping them get into addiction treatment in Mesa and you’ll be a much better source of support for them.

The Difference between Addiction and Abuse

There are many terms that people throw around when they talk about people who use drugs or abuse alcohol. Some people might talk about “addiction,” while others may talk about “substance abuse” or “dependence.” Some people think these terms are interchangeable, but they aren’t.

Addiction refers to a physical and mental dependence on a substance, such as a drug or alcohol. Substance abuse is the overuse of drugs or alcohol despite the consequences. It is a choice, whereas addiction is not. Dependence is a physical need for a substance, but not a mental need. That’s why addiction is so powerful. It is a mental and physical dependence that the person does not choose and cannot control.

Signs of Addiction

You may suspect that someone is an addict, but you may not be sure. Knowing the signs of addiction can help you. Here are some of the common signs of addiction:

Changes in personality or appearance
Loss of interest in activities and people
Withdrawal and isolation
Frequent drug use or drinking
Financial problems
Trouble at work

There can be other signs that are dependent on the person. However, if you notice any concerning changes in your loved one, it’s worth having a conversation with your loved one, your family, or treatment professionals.

Statements and Terms to Avoid

Confronting someone about their addiction requires sensitivity and tact. Saying the wrong thing can alienate your loved one and cause them to further isolate themselves. Try to avoid using the following terms:

Addict. Though this might be the right word to describe the person, this word has a negative connotation that can be dehumanizing. Talk about the person as someone who is “struggling with addiction,” not as an “addict.”
Alcoholic. Again, this might be the right term, but it can be dehumanizing.
Clean. Some people say that a person who is sober is “clean.” However, this term makes it sound like substance abuse is a stain on their character, which it is not. Rather than using terms like these that carry negative connotation and judgement, say that a person is sober or is in recovery.
Relapse. People say that someone has relapsed, had a lapse or had a slip when they use drugs or alcohol after going through addiction treatment. This makes it sound like using is a moral failing or a choice, which it is not when someone has an addiction. Try to refrain from using words that carry any judgement and can make a person feel worse.

It may seem difficult to know what to say when you know someone who has an addiction and you want to get them help. Rather than quitting in frustration, you should speak to an addiction counselor about what to do for your loved one, specifically, to help them get the addiction treatment they need to get on the road to recovery.

Corebella Health and Wellness Clinic offers addiction therapy and other services to help those suffering from addiction, as well as their loved ones. We offer initial detox programs, as well as ongoing addiction counseling. We offer therapy for both individuals struggling with addiction, as well as their friends and family. We also offer services to help you develop a healthy lifestyle during recovery and long after the initial treatment. Our goal is to help those who are struggling with addiction to break free and live the happy and healthy lives they deserve. Call us today to learn more about our services in Glendale and Tempe.