Caring for someone who is dependant on alcohol or drugs : protecting your own mental health
Addiction does not just affect the addict. For the families, friends and colleagues of a person addicted to substances, it can be a wildly worrying, difficult and emotionally draining journey too.
So how can you take care of the person that you love and protect your own mental health too? In our latest blog post we take a look at how to find that balance.
You are not alone
First and foremost, it is important to know that you are not alone. There are charities, resources and support groups out there to help you (find them at the end of this article). There are many, many families that have been in a similar situation and you do not have to cope by yourself. Often simply talking to, or getting advice from someone that has been in your shoes can be incredibly beneficial. To just know that someone understands how you feel can help feelings of isolation immensely.
Set Boundaries
It’s ok to set boundaries, say no and take breaks when you need them. This might look like being clear about how and when you will communicate with your loved one, setting boundaries about what activities are acceptable when you are together, or just being honest about the type of support that you can offer.
Talk to someone that you trust
It can really help to share the load with someone that you trust, whether that is simply to offload, or whether that is to ask for their help in supporting your loved one too.
Seek professional help
Encouraging your loved one to seek professional help through a GP, Counsellor, or specialist organisation, is one of the best ways to help them combat their issues. However, don’t forget that the same support could help you too. If things are becoming too much, don’t be afraid to seek your own support and put your mental health first.
Try self-care
Self-care might be the last thing on your mind when you are worried about another person, however, finding moments for your own self-care can help you to continue to support them in the best way possible. Self-care doesn’t have to look like hours of pampering or anything extravagant. It might just be cooking yourself the meal that you love, taking a walk, or just getting enough sleep.
Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. By putting your own needs and mental health first, you will be better equipped to support your loved one.
For more information, advice and support visit:
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
0800 9177 650
help@aamail.org (email helpline)
alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Adfam
Addiction Family Support
0300 888 3853
addictionfamilysupport.org.uk
Al-Anon
0800 0086 811
helpline@al-anonuk.org.uk
al-anonuk.org.uk
FRANK
National Association for Children of Alcoholics (Nacoa)
0800 358 3456
helpline@nacoa.org.uk
nacoa.org.uk
We Are With You
