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Helping a Loved One Get Treatment for Opioid Addiction by Pat McGraw
There are many reasons why someone uses drugs. Some do it to get a thrill, while others use mind altering substances such as alcohol or drugs to avoid feeling pain, literally or emotionally. However, many drugs are addictive and then it's no longer a choice. Opioid drugs such as fentanyl, codeine, oxycodone, tramadol, morphine, etc. are used for pain relief, and they work by blocking your brain's reaction to pain signals. This literally changes the brain's RESPONSE to pain by creating artificial endorphins, which the brain may come to rely on. Some people can use this type of drug when needed, after injury or surgery for example, and then stop without any problems. Others, however, become dependent on the pain relief supplied by the drug and cannot stop without help. They may transition into stronger prescription pain killers or street drugs such as heroin.
COMMON SYMPTOMS of drug abuse include neglecting responsibilities at work, school or home because of drug use (skipping work, flunking classes, neglecting children or family). Escalating drug use causes the user to do more to feel good, so risky or dangerous behavior may result (stealing to afford the drug, arguing with family members or co-workers, driving under the influence). If the user builds up a tolerance to the drug so that it no longer works or is now used to stave off withdrawal symptoms, then you have ADDICTION. The user has lost control over their drug use and their life now revolves around using, even though it is hurting them and their relationships.
The good news is that there is help available to drug users, and family members and friends can SUPPORT them in getting treatment. The bad news is that recovery is a long process, and many users relapse. However, there are definitely things you can do to help a loved one in their recovery. The first thing to do is learn as much as you can about addiction and the recovery process. Understand that the user will need to learn new coping mechanisms so that they can deal with their pain in different ways than using drugs. This will be an ongoing process, and they will need to know that you support them, no matter what. Once you realize that RELAPSE is not failure and continuing to work their recovery is progress, you can learn to be supportive even when they struggle.
They will need you to support them without judgement or blame, because they will be feeling those things already. Your support must be unconditional but also tough; do not cover up for them, make excuses for them or take on their responsibilities. Caring for them without condoning their behavior encourages them to try to do better without making them feel worse about not being able to stop on their own. Understand that you will be angry at them, but that you cannot SHAME them into being better. If you cannot encourage them in their recovery without blaming them, then you need to let others support them instead.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (drugabuse.gov) has A listing of several ORGANIZATIONS that are available to help you and your loved one in their battle against addiction. The site lists frequently asked questions and where you can find information about getting treatment. Again, treatment is a long process, which is why recovery is often described as a road. It's not quick or easy, and there will be stops and starts, but it is possible. With support from you and other family members and friends, and perhaps therapy, your loved one can fully recover from addiction and move on to a happy and satisfying life. You can help them do it.
Page modified by Lanny Townsend on November 24, 2017
Scripture references on this website are closely paraphrased from e–Sword's King James Bible.