Resources for families supporting loved ones who are battling addiction

Disclaimer: the resources below have been curated from the internet and helped me to understand Kai's addiction. I encourage you to do your own research as I have no way of qualifying if these are the "best" resources available.

Spotting signs of addiction

WebMD: Painkillers, Narcotics Misuse, and Addiction

Delta Medical Center: Opiate Abuse Side Effects, Addiction Signs, & Symptoms

Opiate Abuse Signs & Symptoms

Narconon: Signs and Symptoms of Prescription Pain Reliever Abuse

How to help and support addicts

Nar-Anon

5 Tips for Family and Friends of an Opiate Addict

NIH: Addiction Support Resources for Families

How to Help an Opiate Addict

How to Help with Opiate Addiction

WebMD: Treating an Addiction to Painkillers

Opiate Addiction Treatment & Withdrawal

Family Involvement is Important in Substance Abuse Treatment

things you can do for the addict

Read the full article on AddictionsandRecovery.org.

• Educate yourself on addiction and recovery.
• Try not to accuse or judge. Avoid name calling. This is a difficult time for both of you.
• Provide a sober environment that reduces triggers for using.
• Allow the addict time to go to meetings.
• Understand that your lives will change. Do not wish for your old life back. Your old life to some extent is what got you here. You both need to create a new life where it is easier to not use alcohol or drugs.
• Make sure that you both have time for fun. People use alcohol and drugs to relax, escape, and as a reward. The addict needs to find alternative ways to relax, escape, and as a reward otherwise they will turn back to their addiction.
• Do not enable. Do not provide excuses or cover up for the addict.
• Do not shield the addict from the consequences of their addiction. People are more likely to change if they have suffered enough negative consequences.
• Set boundaries that you all agree on. The goal of boundaries is to improve the health of the family as a whole. Do not use boundaries to punish or shame.
• If you want to provide financial support, buy the goods and services the addict needs instead of giving them money that they might use to buy alcohol or drugs.
• Recognize and acknowledge the potential the addict has within them.
• Behave exactly as you would if your loved one had a serious illness. What would you do if they were diagnosed with heart disease or cancer?