Finding out that your daughter has a drug addiction is many parents' worst nightmare. You may feel angry, scared and overwhelmed by the challenge of helping her through this addiction, or feel unsure of what to do and how to go about doing it. Although it certainly will not be easy, you can help your daughter with her drug addiction.
Step 1
Educate yourself about drug addiction. The more you know, the more you will be able to help her. You can get information about drug addiction by talking to substance abuse counselors in your area, reading books on the subject or calling the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information (NCADI) at 1-800-788-2800 for free informational pamphlets and fact sheets.
Step 2
Get other family members on board and on the same page. There is strength in numbers and having your spouse or other family members support you and her in this difficult time will make the process easier.
Step 3
Talk to your daughter about her drug addiction. Initiate this conversation at a time when she is not drunk, high, angry or upset and when there will be plenty of time to talk without feeling rushed. Express your love for her and your genuine concern for her well-being above all else, and be very careful not to come across as judgmental or angry. Although it is important to be specific when you explain why you believe she has a drug addiction and the potential consequences of her behavior, this information should be imparted impartially and neutrally, almost like a news reporter, suggests the Partnership for a Drug-free America.
Step 4
Listen to her. Although many people dealing with substance abuse problems will be quick to make excuses for their behavior, that doesn't mean that their opinions or excuses don't deserve to be heard and recognized. The more validated and heard she feels, the more willing she will be to accept your help.
Step 5
Work with your daughter to establish goals for treatment and recovery. These may include seeking the help of a professional substance abuse counselor or joining a support group. However, goals not directly related to her recovery can also be included, such as raising her grades or getting a job.
Step 6
Get your own support. Helping a loved one through a drug addiction can be a grueling, stressful process and you need to keep your own mental health and well-being a priority as well. You will be more helpful to her if you are strong yourself. Talking to family members or friends can help, but also consider joining a support group for family members or friends of drug addicts or talking to a counselor yourself.
Step 7
Be patient. Recovering from a drug addiction is a difficult process, and your daughter will most likely have moments of weakness or relapses. Continue to offer her support and be as patient as possible as she travels down her road of recovery.
Tips and Warnings
- You may want to practice the initial discussion beforehand, and be prepared to answer personal questions about your own behavior if your daughter should ask.
- Do not make excuses for your daughter's behavior or her addiction. This will only enable her in her addiction and make the problem worse. In the end, only your daughter has the power to end her drug addiction. Do not blame yourself if she relapses or is unable to get her addiction under control.
