Photo by Sharon McCutcheon

Originally Posted On: https://just-recovery.com/how-to-help-a-recovering-addict-stay-sober-after-treatment/

Substance addiction, whether it’s drug-, chemical- or alcohol-related, can have devastating consequences on an individual and their family and friends.

If your loved one has gone through the important step of acceptance, sought help and has begun their recovery, then they’re on track to leading a healthy, happy life once again.

After treatment, a recovering addict needs a strong support system to help keep them sober. Here’s how to help a recovering addict and what steps you can take to assist your loved one after rehab.

Provide a Safe, Judgement-Free Environment

The first step to supporting a recovering addict is by providing a safe haven where your loved one can find peace and comfort.

Show them through your words and actions that you’re not there to judge, but rather to help.

Provide a Listening Ear

It’s possible the question of how to help a drug addict was never on your radar before, because your addicted spouse, child or friend simply didn’t hint at what was going on.

Substance abuse is often due to mental anguish and inner turmoil, so one of the best things you can do is to listen. Feelings of guilt, low self-worth and sadness often plague recovering addicts, so let them know you’re there if they want to talk and share their feelings with a trusted confidant.

Create a Substance-Free Zone

It may seem obvious, but it can’t be overstated that any temptation needs to be removed from the path of a recovering addict.

For example, if your loved one was addicted to recreational or prescription medication, you should still remove alcohol from around the house so as not to allow for a trigger or an alternative crutch.

Encourage Trying a New Hobby or Activity

When a recovering addict takes the path to sobriety, it means they’ll have a lot more time to think and worry over past issues and events.

Without being pushy, why not encourage your loved one to pursue a new hobby or activity that can give them a new focus? The sad feelings and anxiety that accompany recovery can sometimes be alleviated through easy and restful distractions.

Promote a Healthy Lifestyle Through Good Nutrition

Addictive substances not only lead to harmful behavior, but they also introduce toxic chemicals into the body. Replacing these harmful toxins with good nutrition and a wholesome diet can help your loved one feel they’re doing something good for their body.

A healthy lifestyle can also promote a new outlook on life, a happier focus, and a positive pattern of behavior that will help a recovering addict in the long run to live their best, healthiest life.

How to Help a Recovering Addict

When your loved one is on the road to recovery, you may sometimes feel helpless as you watch them struggle through the aftermath of their addiction. Still, if you’re wondering how to help a recovering addict, there are many things you can do.

Show them you’re not there to judge, be there for them when they need to talk, and provide wholesome, nourishing foods that will promote good health and wellbeing.

If your loved one has an addiction and you’re desperate to help, check out our upcoming events for 90 minutes that will change your life – and theirs – for the better.