This is not a simple question and therefore, is not a simple answer. Support in the way of unconditional love and help to get off of the drugs is highly encouraged for loved ones of a drug addict. However, financial support and becoming co-dependant is not a good way to help yourself, or your loved one.
It can be very difficult NOT to financially support the drug addict, even though you disagree with what he or she is doing. Loving someone usually means that you take care of them. For a drug addict, however, taking care of them takes on a whole new meaning. Tough love is a very real thing and in the end, it is best for everyone involved. Reminding the drug addict that you love them and are there whenever they need to get help is a great way of supporting them. Drug addicts often forget that they are loved because all they think about is their own love…for their drug. Whether you choose to financially support a drug addict, chances are, they will obtain money from you one way or another. Theft from family members is quite common for someone addicted to drugs.
Actually supporting their habit is probably the worse thing you can do. As hard as it is, you must make it very clear that you will have no part in supporting their drug habit. It will undoubtedly lead to many arguments, but you are not alone. This is something that is faced by the loved ones of drug addicts around the world. Stick to your guns and refuse to support their habit. You should also be encouraging and positive by letting the addict know that they could quit and that you would support them 100% in that decision.
Loving a drug addict can be one of the most frightening and upsetting experiences people can go through. The goal, however, is to help the addict and not sustain his way of life. The only thing that will help an addict is getting off the drugs. It sounds much simpler than it is and most families must go through a lot of pain to get to that point. It is well worth it though, to see the return of the one you love and not their drug addicted persona. It also may very well be saving a life, either the addicts, or quite possibly your own.
Our Professional counselors have the expertise to help a loved one to start on his or her road of rehabilitation – It is a great idea to contact them for advices.
Author: National Addiction Resources
America's Best Treatment Directory
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