If you have a friend or a loved one who is working through recovery from mental illness and/or addiction, you may be wondering how best to support them. Perhaps you’re not sure what you can specifically say or do. Though each individual’s recovery will be different, the clinical team at Alpine Recovery Lodge is here to help.
Five ways to support a loved one through recovery
Here are five ways you can help a friend or loved one during their recovery journey:
- Tell them you want to help
People in recovery may be hesitant to ask for help, so don’t be afraid to make the first move. Not sure exactly what to say? Keep it simple; just say, “I want to help. I’m here to help in any way I can.” - Talk to them about specific ways you can help
If you offer to help, don’t just leave it at that. Give them examples of how you can help. It can be as easy as running a few errands, helping with medication reminders, or even offering a compassionate ear or shoulder whenever they need it. Find out what they need and how best you can help. - Encourage abstinence from drugs and alcohol
Help your loved one avoid social situations that may involve drugs or alcohol and encourage them to find and participate in sober recreational activities. - Learn about recovery
As with most things, you can do better if you know better, so seek out reputable mental health resources to learn about the individual’s specific issues and ways to you can help them develop the coping skills they need to deal with their issues. - Don’t give up
Your loved one’s journey toward recovery may be long, challenging or burdened with unexpected setbacks, which can be discouraging. It’s critical to not give up. Keep supporting them and think of recovery as a marathon, not a sprint. They will get there, and your help is crucial.
These are just a few of the many ways you can help support your loved one through recovery. To learn more, please call Alpine Recovery Lodge at 801-874-3171 and speak to one of our skilled team members.
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