Don’t stop now…
Posted on 09/30/11
September is Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month - and though we are on the last day of the month, a word of caution to you all... Don't stop now!
Never stop trying to help yourself, or someone you love in the uphill battle that is recovery. Take the time to listen, love and learn - it will pay off. Here are a few tips to get you through the next 11 months until we meet September again.
Whether your situation involves family, friends or you personally are battling addiction, drug and alcohol abuse is never an easy subject to tackle. Internally, it is debilitating to loved ones who witness their mother, their father, their spouse or child wallows in this state of anguish. What can you do when you are seeking help; that hand from above to simply grant you the grace, wisdom or peace that you need in order to face this matter? Points to remember:
1. First, for those wanting to help someone on the road to recovery, you must realize that it is not your fault. Repeat that every time you begin to cry over the despair you feel for the person you love. This condition that they are in was not mastered by you, and could not have been controlled by you. You can control only your actions; and your actions in this process can encourage the deeper healing necessary.
2. Surrender to the process necessary for not only their healing, but yours. Indirectly experiencing a problem with addiction directly affects you. Admitting that it hurts, and understanding the time and patience required for complete healing is key for both you and your loved one.
3. Treat not the symptom, yet the deeper issues that the co-dependence tried to mask. With any addiction, this did not start as a hobby; this act of trying to mask the pain or problem began long ago, and has merely snow-balled. Know that this addiction could have manifested in many forms, but the deeper issues stay the same. Understand that the issues beneath the surface are what you are helping your loved one tackle.
4. Lastly, simply LOVE. Loving, transparent communication is far more effective than barking orders. Covering that person in love, whether in conversation or through action, is more powerful than you think.
