When an addict returns from their drug rehabilitation treatment, this doesn’t mean that they’re automatically cured. In fact, the recovery process of an addict is a life-long journey that requires the daily decision to avoid temptation and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

For those who are living with an individual who is recovering, they will know that addiction doesn’t just affect the addict. Addiction touches many people close to a suffering addict, and when the time comes for recovery, loved ones can have a huge impact on their success or failure.

If you are living in the same home as a recovering addict, you will be exposed to the ups and downs of their journey much more than others. Fortunately, there are ways that you can be an asset to their recovery, while still maintaining your own health and that of your families.

The following are some of the best tips for living with a recovering addict, including some of the typical challenges you’ll face and how to deal with them.

Learn About the Recovery Process

Of all of the tips for living with a recovering addict, this is one of the most important. Lack of preparation before welcoming a recovering addict home can spell disaster, so learning what you can is necessary.

If you can, take some initiative before your loved one comes home. Research the types of behaviors and attitudes you can expect from a recovering addict, and the best ways to support them.

This is important for partners as well as children, siblings, parents, etc. It is ideal if a family can ban together to make sure everyone is doing their part to help the process.

Embrace Family Counseling

As mentioned, addiction can hurt more than just the addict. Families and friends often battle immensely with the struggles of a loved one, which may mean some relationship issues in the home during recovery.

Consider taking part in some family counseling. This type of program will allow any family members to express how they’re feeling, and help them come to resolutions about how to handle this new situation.

Practice a Substance-Free Home

Even if the other individuals living in your home have no issue with substance abuse, it is important that a recovering addict’s home is free of triggers and temptations.

This means getting rid of all drugs and alcohol in the home, or any other item that may stir up cravings. It may even be necessary for family or friends to embrace a new lifestyle that is free of substance-use; or to at least practice self-discipline when they’re at home.

Related article: Ways a Recovering Addict Can Reduce Stress | Drug Addition

Attend Meetings

It is very helpful for a recovering addict to attend consistent meetings post-rehabilitation; therapy programs offer support and guidance during this difficult time that can be attended by both the addict and their family.

This not only shows support for the individual, but also helps to keep family/friends in the loop about how the individual is doing.

Encourage Doctor Visits

It’s no secret that substance abuse can have all kinds of negative effects on the body.

If you can, encourage the recovering addict to attend consistent doctor visits during the early stages of their recovery to ensure that everything is healing properly and that there are no areas to worry about.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, every individual is going to make their own decisions post-rehabilitation. Fortunately, a support system that genuinely wants to help can make a huge different in the eyes of an addict, so it’s important to do your best to offer a helping hand.

Consider these tips for living with a recovering addict, to ensure that you’re doing all you can to make their home space the ideal place for recovery.

Call Inspire Change Addiction Rehab in Vancouver for addiction treatment programs.