Denial is a frequent characteristic exhibited by an individual suffering from addiction, even cell phone addiction. It is difficult for the addict to objectively view how their addiction is affecting those closest to them. This is especially true when substance use is not affecting their ability to function effectively in daily activities. Although there are addicts and alcoholics who have lost jobs, families, and homes there are also many who are successful in their chosen careers, are surrounded by loved ones, and live a comfortable life. However, addiction creates a precarious situation where even those who have been able to maintain a standard of living will most likely find themselves at a critical point sometime in the future.

An initial step to try and break a friend or family member free from the cycle of addiction is to decide on a time when you can both talk in private. Optimally this conversation should occur when the addict is not using and when both parties are feeling calm and non-confrontational. Limiting the amount of time spent discussing the addiction assists with keeping the focus on the addiction and its impact on the lives of those involved. The conversation should focus specifically on how the individual’s drinking or drug use has affected you and why entering treatment is a critical next step. It is important to present problems caused or exacerbated by drugs and alcohol as objectively as possible without blaming the addict for the behaviors. Whether or not to involve others such as friends, family or colleagues depends upon how beneficial it will be to have the addict hear how their use has affected relationships with various individuals. Deciding to approach the topic following a recent drinking or drug use episode that resulted in a problem directly related to their substance use can provide a unique opportunity to demonstrate how drugs and alcohol are impacting their life. Waiting until the person is sober helps them to be able to reflect on recent and past incidences to determine whether treatment would benefit their situation.

Few alcoholics and addicts want to admit that they have lost control over their addiction. They might provide examples of how they are managing use of drugs or alcohol and why they do not think they have a problem. It is vital to remember that treatment does not have to wait until an addict has lost everything. In fact these individuals may be more open to accepting treatment in order to protect their relationships, employment and home. Prior to confronting an addict, taking time to educate yourself and prepare resources to present the addict with allows you to be an active, knowledgeable participant in the conversation. Possessing information about local treatment options and resources allows for an immediate appointment to be made if and when the addict agrees. Offering to accompany them to their first appointment or A.A./N.A. meeting alleviates some anxiety and concerns they may have about going.

Being aware of how you will handle if the person does not accept your offer to help and following through on what you stated would happen if they do not enter treatment is essential during this process. Allowing natural consequences to occur, not with the intent of punishment, helps the addict or alcoholic to realize the impact and problems alcohol or drugs is having on their life. Denial can include blaming others for their behavior, identifying ways in which they are still functioning, and offering excuses for why they drink or use drugs. Once a loved one decides to stop enabling the use the addict is required to accept responsibility for their own actions and repercussions. When blame and excuses are no longer options the addict may finally come to terms with how they have lost control over their addiction. Even though you are handing over the responsibility to the addict it is imperative that you offer your unwavering support to them if they decide to enter treatment for alcohol and drugs.

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