I know my loved one is using

Watching the one you love get drunk or high on a regular basis is difficult for most. Seeing how they are hurting themselves and those around them due to their addiction can cause incredible sadness, anger, and frustration. Often the person wanting to help is left feeling hopeless and helpless, especially when attempts to help are met with resentment.

If someone close to you has a drug problem, you can take action. The following are steps you can take toward positive change:

  1. Contact the caring intake counselors at New Method Wellness.  We are here to help.  If our program is not the one for your loved one, we will help you find the right program.
  2. Get information. Learn more about how someone develops a drug problem, and learn about the steps that can be taken during the recovery process.  Reading the material on this and other websites is a start.
  3. Stop covering up for the drug abuser in your life. Sometimes people around a person abusing drugs attempt to cover up the problem. They think that if they make life easier for that person, he or she might stop using drugs. However, covering up for someone with a drug problem makes it easier for that person to keep using. You are helping the problem continue if you help someone hide their drug abuse.
  4. Find someone to talk to about your situation. Talk honestly with a friend, another family member, a counselor or support group. You may need support to help you work out your feelings and to help you decide what you can do to make your situation better.
  5. Make changes. Identify the things you can to do to make your situation better. The following are examples of positive changes you can make:
    • Stop covering up the drug problem. Don’t make excuses to family, friends and employers.
    • Re-establish old friendships.
    • Start an exercise program.
    • Make sure you are eating and sleeping properly.
    • Find a counsellor or support group.
    • Do not accept blame for the drug user’s behavior, but do take responsibility for your own behavior and the things you can change.

The choices you make to take care of yourself will help you, the rest of your family, and the person with the drug problem.