enabler

As the loved one or friend of a user, it can be challenging to support them without falling into enabling them. An enabler, in a general sense, can be a friend, loved one, child, sibling, romantic partner, or anyone who has a relationship with an addict. When the addicted individual lacks control over their problem, it leads the enabler to take responsibility for the user’s actions, sometimes even more responsibility than the user does.

This dynamic between the two people prevents the user from having to deal with the full ramifications of their actions and addiction. Have you ever wondered how to stop being an enabler? It’s a struggle that many loved ones of users face. However, there are a number of simple steps you can take to stop being an enabler for your loved one and help them face their substance abuse addiction and the consequences of their actions.

STEPS TO STOP BEING AN ENABLER

It’s important to remember that although you stop enabling your loved one’s addiction, you don’t stop loving them and being there for them. Enabling behavior can sometimes feel like helping your loved one, but you can help your loved one simply by being there for them and helping them get the addiction treatment they need once they realize the full scope of the consequences to their problem. Below are a handful of simple steps to take to stop being an enabler to an addict.

This is only one situational example of a way to protect yourself from the consequences of your loved one’s addiction. If you’re loved one is suffering from an alcohol or drug addiction, the best way you can help them is to get them enrolled in a rehab facility.

Source: Beach House