The reality of an overdose is that many people don’t make it beyond them. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that in 2023, 105,000 people died from a drug overdose. What’s even more shocking is that many others survived, and those numbers are likely underreported.
Your loved one overdosed. That’s a harsh and painful reality. But now what? Now how do you deal with the pain and suffering, complexities of life, and your anger? At Iron Bridge Recovery Center, we offer tools and resources to help you move forward in your life while providing the right balance of support and guidance to your loved one.
Being Realistic About What You Can Do
As a family member, the reality is that there’s not often much you can do to force your loved one into treatment. More than likely, they’ll need support making the decision to get help, staying in treatment, and staying sober after. Consider these steps to support your loved one through this process.
Make Treatment Non-Negotiable
Drug and alcohol addiction treatment is available, and it is critical. Encourage your loved one to enter into professional treatment. That may mean getting addiction detox support or, if they are not actively using substances at this time, getting into a residential treatment program.
There are some situations where partial hospitalization or our virtual intensive outpatient program may be options as well. You don’t have to make these decisions right now. Instead, give Iron Bridge a call so we can give you insight into what type of care may best suit your loved one.
Create Boundaries
Make sure your loved one understands your stance on their continued use of substances. The reality is, this is traumatic for you as well as them. Inform them of what you felt and experienced when you saw or learned about their addiction or overdose. Make it clear that their actions impacted your well-being.
Then, set some boundaries. Here are some examples:
- You are not willing to be around them if they have used substances or plan to do so.
- You refuse to allow your children around them if they are actively using substances.
- You will not pay their bills or make excuses for them if they continue to use those substances.
It’s a hard line to draw, but it’s an important way to show your loved one that you’re serious. What’s going to help you as well.
Get Help for Your Trauma
Watching a loved one suffer is a common cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You don’t have to be the person who is suffering to experience this. It can create flashbacks, intensely terrifying memories, and debilitating thoughts. You will benefit from your own mental health support.
Family therapy is often done alongside addiction treatment. This is an opportunity for you and your loved one to work together towards a better future. But it’s not meant to be solely focused on your needs. For that, seek out your own treatment program and supportive team. Your mental health is just as important.
Don’t Diminish What They’re Facing
Take the time to learn what addiction is, how it operates, and why it is a disease like any other form that requires medical and mental health treatment. The more you know about addiction, the better you can understand what’s happening.
However, you also don’t want to diminish their experience. It’s unique to them, and chances are good you do not know all of the details that put them on this path. Instead, try these tips:
- Never say, “I understand what you’re going through…” Unless you actually went through addiction recovery yourself. Even if you understand the process and disease, the first-hand experience is always more intense.
- Offer genuine support. If you say you’ll be there after every meeting for a call, do so. If you can’t provide that level of support, that’s okay. Just don’t promise it.
- Avoid shaming, isolating, or making a loved one feel “less” than anyone else. It’s easier to not invite someone with a substance use disorder to dinner so you can have a drink. But that’s damaging to who they are and what they are working towards. Instead, invite them and ask their thoughts.
Focus on finding balance between your personal needs and those of your loved one. Remember, too, that this isn’t a battle you have to manage on your own. You can get help from counselors and therapists as well as family.
Request a Consultation With a Treatment Team Now
No matter where you or your loved one are on this journey, overdose is terrifying. It’s always a risk, and it may feel impossible to overcome mentally. Yet, there’s help, and we can offer it.
Learn about addiction treatment programs in Richmond, VA today. Contact Iron Bridge now to learn more.
