We all know how difficult it can be to know how to support a loved one who is having problems with alcohol use. You can assist your loved one in receiving the care they need by learning more about alcohol use disorders, thinking through new strategies to communicate with them, and organizing your conversation beforehand. By doing these things, you’ll be in a better position to support them. It is often hard to tell what conversation starters will trigger your loved one or be misinterpreted. As experts in addiction counseling at Beachcomber drug and alcohol rehab in Fort Lauderdale, FL, we will provide you with this article on how to approach a family member about their drinking issue and strategies to consider when doing so.
What Is An Alcohol Use Disorder?
When drinking interferes with a person’s life to the extent that they are unable to regulate their daily consumption, it becomes a problem. Despite the harsh effects that drinking has on their lives, they can’t seem to stop doing it. An alcohol use disorder may be present in a person whose drinking reaches this point. An alcohol use disorder is an illness that can be treated. It can arise as a result of specific physiological and cognitive changes that can make it more difficult for a person to stop drinking, even if they really want to.
Keep in mind that an alcohol use disorder can only be diagnosed with the help of a medical professional. But knowing the warning signs of this disorder might help you get ready to talk to the family member that you think maybe having trouble.
Alcohol Use Disorder Signs
Your loved one will often show physical symptoms that suggest they are struggling with alcoholism. Bloodshot eyes, breath smelling of alcohol, sleeping more than usual or looking exhausted, and/or an unsteady walk are some examples of these physical symptoms.
At alcohol rehab in Fort Lauderdale, FL, we know that observing alterations in behavior could also indicate that your loved one struggles with alcohol abuse. For example, they might regularly lose their temper, act aggressively, or get melancholy for no apparent reason. They might show signs of intoxication, lose interest in relationships, their jobs, and their studies, or become unable to turn down events that include alcohol.
Family members who struggle with alcohol abuse will sometimes start lying or hiding information about their whereabouts, consumption of alcohol, and related things. You might notice that they no longer tell you where they are, who they are with, or what they are doing. While these characteristics by themselves may not indicate an alcohol use disorder, they may be suggestive of an alcohol-related issue when combined with other warning indicators.
How to Approach an Alcoholic
Having gained more knowledge about alcohol use disorders, you are now better equipped to comprehend a family member’s struggles. The emotionally difficult portion of the chat, though, may be beyond your comfort level. This is where planning ahead and putting your thoughts in writing will help. Give your worries about your loved one’s drinking some attention. Don’t forget to use “I” sentences to convey your thoughts, feelings, and how your loved one’s alcohol usage affects you. One could express concern about the person’s alcohol consumption. If you return home late at night and I don’t know where you’ve gone, I notice that my anxiety level rises.
Tell them you’re concerned about the health of your loved one. We at alcohol rehab in Fort Lauderdale, FL, advise you to tell your loved one how you truly feel, for example, by expressing, “I’m worried that drinking so much every day is harming your health.”
Be understanding and compassionate. Say something like, “I know you’re feeling more stressed than usual,” or “I know you’ve been having a hard time at work, and you’ve been feeling more pressure,” without placing blame.
Provide choices as opposed to demands. Saying something like, “I was wondering if you would consider seeing a specialist to talk about your alcohol use,” as opposed to, “You need to get help,” will help to present options. You cannot make someone do something they are not ready to do.
Conclusion
When discussing your family members’ alcohol usage, timing is crucial. They may oscillate between thinking they can handle their alcohol problems alone and realizing they need help. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), those with alcohol use disorders may slip through the cracks if treatment isn’t readily available. Starting addiction treatment sooner increases the chances of success. To better support your loved one, educate yourself about alcohol use disorders, devise new communication strategies, and prepare for the conversation. Beachcomber alcohol rehab in Fort Lauderdale, FL, is available to provide more information on treatment plans when you call us today.
