If you have a parent that abuses drugs or alcohol, you know how difficult it can be to confront them directly about their problem. The Addiction Info website reports that substance abuse can have devastating effects on a child and the entire family, such as an increase in injuries and neglect. Explaining to parents the importance of treatment options and how and why they should get help can aid in putting them on the road to recovery.
Step 1
Identify the signs of substance abuse. Withdrawing from family, using more drugs or alcohol to reach a high or maintain addiction and depression or experiencing paranoia, mood swings and blackouts are common signs of substance abuse, states the Help Guide. Tell your parent he is a different person when he uses and that you want a relationship that is healthy and normal.
Step 2
Contact a licensed behavioral therapist about your situation. This will give you some insight as to how to show support and explain your concern to your parent. The National Institute of Drug Abuse remarks that cognitive behavioral therapy will give you the tools you need to help your parent cope and recognize and avoid triggers that may help fuel her addiction. Explain to your mother that you will be willing to help her by also getting therapy.
Step 3
Speak to your parent in private. Your parent may feel uneasy or embarrassed if you mention his problem at a public location or around family members. Expect him to have some emotion as you talk to him about getting help. He may be sad or angry.
Step 4
Plan an intervention with other friends and family members, explains the Intervention website. An intervention may be planned as a last resort. If your parent is unwilling to get help on her own, you may have to pair up with supportive people in your mom's life such as siblings and friends. A behavioral therapist may also be utilized to help you put words and actions into perspective. Create a plan for treatment that includes inpatient or outpatient care based on the severity of her abuse.
Step 5
Offer support through treatment. Having the right support will help your parent get a chance at sobriety. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that treatment of drug addiction involves addressing the craving, withdrawal and effects of what drugs and alcohol can do to the system. Treatment also includes a parent learning how to communicate effectively with others, especially his children, and when to ask for help.
Tips and Warnings
- Not all parents will be accepting of their problems. Some may refuse treatment or decline to further discuss the issue. Be persistent. If you can't convince your parent to get help this time, keep trying.
- The overuse of drugs and alcohol can have life-threatening consequences. If you suspect your parent is drunk driving or overdosing on drugs or alcohol, call 911 immediately.
