How to Encourage a Loved One to Seek Help for Alcoholism

Over 2% of the US population struggles with alcohol abuse. When you realize that your loved one is one of them, it can be difficult to know what to do next.

Alcoholism is not quite as simple as it may seem. Most people are able to recover with the help and support of others, especially when they seek professional treatment.

How should you approach the topic of getting help for alcoholism with your loved one? What can you do to encourage them to consider treatment?

Read on to learn more about what you can do when your loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction.

Educate Yourself on Different Kinds of Help for Alcoholism

Treating alcoholism can look like a number of different things. Most programs will combine both a medical and a psychological approach, as both are necessary to reach full recovery.

Medical treatment for alcoholism often involves a doctor-monitored detox. Your loved one can also choose to pursue medication-based treatment, which you can learn more about from this article.

Psychological treatment often involves cognitive therapy. Here, patients can discuss any factors that may be contributing to comorbidities such as anxiety or depression. They can also learn more about their personal triggers and how to cope with those triggers in a positive, constructive way.

Pick the Right Time and Place for a Compassionate Discussion

If you haven’t discussed your loved one’s alcoholism with them yet, make sure that you prepare for the conversation. It’s important that you plan out what you want to say. It is also important that you find the right time and place to have that discussion, rather than springing it on your loved one when you’re, say, out in public or attending an event.

Compassion should be at the forefront of this conversation. Talk to your loved one about why you are concerned for them and why seeking help would be beneficial to them and to you. Do not get agitated or accusatory during this discussion.

Remember That Recovery Starts With a Desire to Change

Having this discussion with your loved one isn’t easy. It can take a lot of mental and emotional preparation and it is possible that broaching the subject will create tension. Unfortunately, you may not always get the response you’re expecting, and that’s something you should prepare for.

You cannot force your loved one to seek help. At the end of the day, it is their decision to make. Before you talk to them, think about what it would mean for your relationship if they are not ready to seek help–you can only control your own reaction.

You Are Not Alone

When a loved one is struggling with alcoholism, it can feel overwhelming and even isolating. Remember that you are not alone. Your friends, family, and substance abuse professionals can stand by your side as you encourage your loved one to seek help for alcoholism.

Are you looking for more information about health that will make it easier to approach health-related topics? Take a look at our health section for the tips and news you need to make healthy choices.