Addiction is a disease. If we can afford to be empathetic and compassionate to people with cancer or HIV/AIDs, why not to someone who is suffering from addiction?
People with addiction issues need support and understanding that comes from having an open mind. No one decides to be an addict, it is a slow process that takes control over a person’s life without them realizing it. The nature of addiction makes it a very sensitive topic to talk about, and there are some things you should never say to someone suffering from addiction.
It pays to choose your words wisely around someone you care about who is suffering from addiction. Avoid saying the phrases below.
#1 “Why Can’t You Just Stop?”
If it were that easy to stop an addiction, there wouldn’t be treatment/rehabilitation programs established by experts. Chances are, the person you are talking to has tried multiple times to end their addiction. However, the reality is, the desire to stop is not enough, as addiction is a condition that affects the body, mind, and spirit. Someone suffering from an addiction needs help from a professional to overcome their addiction.
#2 “Your Actions Are Selfish.”
The last thing you want is to call someone with an addiction selfish because they are not in control of themselves. If you truly want to help them out, criticizing is not the way to go about it. Someone suffering from an addiction is likely living with shame, guilt, and is likely isolated from normal activities. Empathy is critical when dealing with people.
#3 “How Can You Do Your Job With an Addiction?”
Not every person with an addiction problem completely detaches from responsibilities. In fact, many are high-functioning in their jobs and do not fit the stereotypical image of an addict. The risk is that by making substantial contributions to the company, your loved one’s drug addiction could easily be overlooked, and they may not feel like getting treatment. Even a high-functioning person with an addiction needs help. Eventually, the addiction will progress and take precedence over everything.
#4 “What Do You Have To Be So Negative About? Look On The Bright Side.”
Addiction cuts across age, gender, and socioeconomic status. Even people with a good family life, a successful career, and excellent physical health can become addicted. Addiction is so much more than what is portrayed in the media and having a positive mentality is not a viable standalone treatment for addiction.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Services in Dansville and Martinsville, VA.
The last thing you want is for your loved one to feel shamed or discriminated against based on their circumstances. If they are ready for treatment, talk to us at EPIC Health Partners. Our compassionate and highly experienced team of providers offers client-centric psychiatric services, outpatient therapy, and in-home services. Our therapeutic interventions are based on evidence-based practices that help individuals suffering from addiction reach their treatment goals and live a productive and rewarding life.
EPIC Health Partners is proud to serve the mental health needs of our community, and we look forward to supporting you or your loved one. Call 911 and/or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free at (800) 273-TALK (8255) or text “HOME” to the text number 741-741 if your loved one is actively suicidal.
For any questions or to make an appointment with one of our psychiatric services providers, call our clinic today at (434) 835-4601 or use our convenient appointment request form.
