While it is helpful to know what to say, it is also helpful to know what not to say. Today, let’s look at 5 statements that you should refrain from saying to your loved one in addiction rehab. 1. “I understand what you are going through.”
Full Answer
What to say to someone who is in rehab?
Dec 02, 2021 · Each person’s struggle and recovery is unique so even if you have been through a similar rehabilitation program yourself, it is unhelpful to pretend like you know exactly what they are experiencing during their own journey. Instead, assure them that you are there to support them through this process. 2. “How long have you been clean/sober?”
What should I not say to a friend in recovery?
Feb 16, 2022 · What Not to Say to Someone in Rehab. There are several encouraging words or questions that you might ask a loved one who is in rehabilitation. In addition, there are other no-in no’s the workplace. Let’s take a look at a couple of them.
Is it offensive to ask if someone is in rehab?
Aug 09, 2019 · When wondering what to say to someone struggling with addiction, you can’t go wrong with telling someone how proud you are of them. 2. “You are not alone – I am here for you.” – It takes a lot of courage for someone to acknowledge they have an addiction and want to …
What to say to someone struggling with addiction?
Oct 02, 2015 · 8. Do not say: "Joe's in recovery too!" Talking to someone in recovery should always come with the caveat that it’s usually a private thing -- so whatever you say, don’t yell it. Always try to have the conversation in a semi-private place so …
What should you not say to someone in recovery?
What Not To Say To Someone In Recovery“I know how you feel.” ... “How long have you been sober?” ... “Joe is in recovery, too.” ... “Can't you have just one (drink/hit)?” ... “Why did you get into that stuff?” ... “I never thought you had a problem.”Jul 6, 2020
What do you say to someone who is in recovery?
8 Things to Say to Someone in RecoveryI Love You. ... You're Not Alone. ... Everyone Needs Help Sometimes. ... How Are You Feeling? ... How Can I Help? ... Let's Hang Out. ... I'm Proud of You. ... I Know You Are Struggling, But There's Always Hope.May 29, 2019
What do you say to someone who just got out of rehab?
Instead Say: “I want you to continue living a healthy, alcohol-free life. I'm happy to do anything to help you stay sober, like go to a support group meeting or counseling session with you.” Individuals and loved ones should recognize that recovery is an ongoing process.Dec 23, 2016
What not to say to someone who has an addiction?
Common phrases to avoid telling a person with drug addiction include:"You're smarter than this""I don't associate with drug users""You never seemed like someone who would deal with this"Do not use shameful, derogatory terms like 'addict' 'cokehead' or 'pothead'Jan 28, 2021
How can I be sober and happy?
New Year, Better You: How to Live Sober and Happy in 2018 & BeyondSetting Goals for Sobriety. The key to successful, sober living lies in setting goals. ... Be Patient & Take it Slow. ... Make a To-Do List, and Plans to Do It. ... Have Fun and Do Things to Make You Happy. ... Surround Yourself with Supportive, Sober People.
How do you say congratulations on sobriety?
Affirm Their Progress And What They Deserve“I'm so proud of you”“I'm so happy to see you taking care of yourself”“You are so strong”“I'm happy that you're doing well”“You are inspiring”“You deserve to be happy”“You are deserving of a happy and healthy life”“Keep on fighting”Aug 10, 2020
What do you say to a one year sober?
“Happy Sober Anniversary” Sample Messages“I'm so happy to see you taking care of yourself.”“You've grown into such a strong and independent person.”“I'm so proud of you and the progress you've made.”“You deserve to be happy.”“I'm happy you're doing so well. ... “You are deserving of a happy and sober life.”More items...•Jul 21, 2021
How can I help someone who is a physical therapist?
How to Support Your Loved One's Physical TherapyExpect Ups and Downs. The person you're caring for may make huge strides one day and slide backward the next. ... Set Realistic Goals. ... Celebrate Small Victories. ... Be Understanding. ... Help, but Not Too Much.Sep 15, 2016
What does love addiction look like?
Love addiction is often a pattern of intense infatuations and obsessive relationships, as well as a tendency to be desperate and insecure in relationships. A person suffering from a love addiction often seeks the excitement and sexual “rush” of a new relationship but cannot maintain a lasting feeling of attachment.Oct 15, 2020
How do you break an addiction to someone?
Tips on How to Break an Addiction to a PersonFigure Out Your Addictive Relationship. ... Detach Yourself from an Unhealthy Bond. ... Surround Yourself with Positive People. ... Welcome Your Independence. ... Learn to Set Boundaries in Relationships and Friendships. ... Pay Attention to Yourself. ... People You Should Avoid.
What to say to someone who is on drugs?
How to talk to someone about their drinking or drug useTry to find out more about alcohol or drugs first. ... Choose a good time and place to talk. ... Give yourself plenty of time to chat. ... Begin by explaining your concerns. ... Talk about specific times that you've been concerned. ... Listen carefully to what they're saying.More items...
What does it mean when you don't have an addiction?
Even if you don’t have an addiction, you may struggle with your own codependent struggles. Addiction represents a family disease. That means every member plays a part in the dynamic. By learning to identify your part, you can learn how to set healthier boundaries for yourself and with your loved one.
What happens when you get sober?
When an individual gets sober, he or she learns how to confront suppressed feelings and uncomfortable triggers. In other words, people learn a whole new way of living. Such changes, undoubtedly, have their obstacles.
What does it mean to be nonjudgmental?
Providing a nonjudgmental space indicates that it’s safe for your loved one to be honest with you. Ask your loved one what they’ve found challenging. You don’t need to provide direct advice, but you should be willing to listen. In addiction treatment, there’s a common expression that secrets keep you sick.
Is it offensive to ask someone in rehab?
There’s a good chance that you don’t know the true extent of how much your loved one has struggled. If you know someone in rehab, it’s ignorant and potentially offensive to ask if they really need it. First, it can invalidate the severity of their issues.
Is addiction a medical condition?
Addiction is a chronic disease and a medical condition. Relapse, therefore, can be a part of the recovery process. Furthermore, both physical and psychological dependence play a significant role in maintaining addiction. Most people with addictions have the desire to stop using or drinking.
Is it easy to get sober?
Just like getting sober isn’t easy, choosing to attend treatment isn’t easy, either. After all, reaching for help requires setting aside some pride and ego to make such a big decision. Addiction can impact every area of one’s life. Taking the step to challenge that status quo is brave. It’s also incredibly scary!
Is addiction a complicated problem?
It’s often wrapped in layers of deceit, shame, and denial. There’s a good chance that you don’t know the true extent of how much your loved one has struggle d.
What to focus on in recovery?
Focus on what is positive about their shift in behavior and outlook. Many people in recovery struggle with feelings of shame and low self-esteem. Help remind them of the big picture: happiness and health are the ultimate goal.
Can you limit yourself to one drink?
If they have trusted you enough to tell you about their recovery, take their word for it. People who can limit themselves to just one drink or just one beer don't usually end up needing to be sober.
Should I talk to someone in recovery?
Talking to someone in recovery should always come with the caveat that it’s usually a private thing -- so whatever you say, don’t yell it. Always try to have the conversation in a semi-private place so that they don’t need to worry about people overhearing.
Can you understand how people in recovery feel?
Unless you have dealt with addiction personally, you do not and cannot understand how people in recovery feel. Saying “I know how you feel” can actually end up minimizing the experiences and feelings of those in recovery.
Can someone tell you their story of addiction?
One person might be fine telling you his or her detailed story of addiction. Others may not be comfortable telling you a single thing about it. Some people may be okay with questions, while others are not. Always try to remember that recovery is personal and private.
Is it common to relapse with alcohol?
Relapse with drug and alcohol use is extremely common , and some people in recovery struggle with issues of shame and self-worth when it comes to talking about relapsing. It is important to focus on one day at a time, even if someone is only one day sober. Advertisement.
Do you have to be an alcoholic to be an addict?
You don’t need to be an alcoholic or an addict to offer support or make a difference in someone’s recovery. This could be anything from going to meetings, helping them tell friends and family about their recovery, checking in on them regularly or making lots of plans together.
How to communicate with someone in rehab?
One of the best ways to communicate concisely with someone in rehab is to write them a letter. It is an excellent way prevent negative emotions from taking over a conversation on the phone since you are able to carefully plan what you want to say, and you are able to say it in the best way possible. Another great aspect of writing ...
What are the symptoms of addiction?
Sadness over your predicament. Anxiety over whether or not your loved one will get better. Anger over the pain that their addiction caused. Shame over what you might say to others about the situation. Weakness due to not being able to help the addict yourself.
How to contact White Sands Treatment?
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery. ← Florida Dual Diagnosis Rehab.
Why do addicts isolate themselves?
Addicts may be closed off and isolate themselves from those around them in order to better facilitate their drug-seeking needs. However, this situation often leads to a substantial buildup of emotions that can make knowing what to write to someone in rehab difficult.
Words Have Power- How to Encourage a Loved One in Therapy?
The best way to connect and encourage a loved family member or friend in drug rehab is by being genuine, supportive, and loving. However, it doesn’t hurt to plan out what you want to say to support, motivate, and help them strive for long-lasting recovery.
To Sum it Up
When planning what encouraging statements you should say, you should also keep some no-no in your mind. Avoid saying something potentially offensive or ignorant like ‘do you need to go to rehab?’ Or ‘you should try…,’ your loved one has likely already heard the advice you’re about to offer.
What to say to someone recovering from addiction?
The stigma of drug or alcohol addiction may have made it even harder. Simple expressions of love, care, and validation will count for a lot in their healing process. Once they realize that they are loved and that they matter to the world, they will be one big step ahead in their recovery.
Why can't I be there for my loved ones?
They may be extremely worried about not contributing income, not taking care of their kids, and generally being a burden on others. This is when you can tell them to put themselves and their recovery first. Only once they’ve completed their treatment will they be in a good position to help out again.
Is rehab easy?
Most people think the rehabilitation process is as easy as checking in, checking out, and then leaving sober. But the road to full recovery is full of bumps. There’s even a chance that your loved one will relapse. It will make a big difference for you to affirm that rehab isn’t easy, and that there are definite stumbling blocks to healing. That way, they can forgive themselves for any mistakes and be less discouraged about their rehabilitation journey.
Is rehab hard on a person?
Maybe they’ve given themselves an internal deadline to achieve sobriety, or maybe they’re comparing themselves to others undergoing rehab. If this is the case, they may be harsh on themselves or not giving themselves enough of a chance. You can tell them to breathe, relax a little, and trust that they will recover at the pace that’s best for them.
