12 Mar How to Effectively and Openly Talk About Substance Abuse

When someone is struggling with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), there are several obstacles they and their loved ones will face throughout their recovery. Unfortunately, recovery is not a linear process and is never as straightforward as we want it to be. One of the most essential things when approaching the topic of substance use is to know how to openly and effectively discuss it without bias, judgment, or misconstrued statements. Today, we want to talk about the importance of developing a safe space that fosters an open and communicative environment where we can approach the subject of SUD to help ourselves and those we love to take triumphant steps towards recovery. 

The Importance of Looking Past the Stigma of Substance Use 

One thing that is likely to create an obstacle in a person’s recovery is the stigma surrounding substance use. If we place negative energy around the issue, nobody is going to be able to express how they are genuinely feeling, and progress in recovery will be far more unlikely. Dropping the stigma surrounding substance use breaks down barriers, challenges bias and helps us focus on the real issues surrounding SUD. 

How Educating Ourselves Can Help Foster a Supportive Environment

One of the most powerful tools in supporting someone in recovery is knowledge. Understanding substances, how they work, and why people use them can help us empathise and provide the support they need. Additionally, having a deeper understanding of SUD can help us identify warning signs, triggers, abnormal behaviour, and possible relapse. Being able to spot these things can play a massive part in someone’s recovery. 

Understanding What Someone Dealing with SUD is Going Through 

Substance use goes far beyond the substance. Often, there are several complex physical, psychological, and emotional struggles at play. These intertwined issues all need to be nurtured for recovery to be successful. Most people affected by addiction are struggling with feelings of helplessness, shame, low self-worth, depression, and trauma. Learning how to talk about these feelings can help people identify the source of their addiction. It is crucial to listen without judgment and don’t speak without thinking. A thoughtful and empathetic approach is essential when discussing these sensitive topics. 

Steps We Can Take to Encourage Communication With Our Loved Ones 

To give you an understanding of how to talk to a loved one who is struggling with SUD, here are some guidelines to help you help them. Remember, providing support during these times isn’t always easy, and if you are struggling, it is always worth contacting a professional.

Time and Place- Ensure you choose a calm, private, and comfortable setting to discuss these issues and pick a time when you won’t encounter distractions. 

Listening – To provide support, you must learn to be an active listener and understand what they are saying and where they are coming from before replying. 

Don’t Judge – Be careful with the words you choose to ensure you aren’t using judgmental, biased, or negative language. 

Know Where You Stand – Offer them support, not solutions. Doing this will allow them to draw conclusions without feeling pressured. 

Educate Yourself – Make sure you fully understand the subject to help you engage in meaningful conversation. 

Be patient – Recovery is not a fast process, and patience is key to providing adequate support. 

Don’t Put it Off: Get the SUD Support You Need

If you or someone you know is struggling with SUD or you aren’t sure how to approach the subject, don’t put off asking for professional help. The team at Calm Rehab are here to guide you in any way they can.