Stepping in to tell a loved one you believe he or she has a drug addiction is far from easy. Correcting any behavior in someone else is often uncomfortable, and confronting an issue like drug addiction, that is often taboo to speak about, can bring shame and embarrassment. These feelings may also be shared by family members and loved ones who may be blamed by the person suffering from addiction. These bystanders may even blame themselves, making it difficult to open up and admit that there is truly a problem that needs to be addressed.
Admitting that there is an issue, as cliché as it may sound, truly is the first step. Having an open and honest conversation, expressing concern and love for the individual is the best way to begin to enact true change in his or her life.
Lawrence Stansberry, A New Orleans resident, has worked as a Drug Intervention Officer at Jefferson Parish Department of Juvenile Services, and has seen the effects of drug addiction in teens firsthand. He believes that teens who have support from family or friends seem to have the best chance of turning their lives around and leaving their addiction behind for good.
Addressing the issue is key. Letting go of the fear that may be holding you back from speaking to an addicted loved one will only further hurt the person and feed the dangerous behavior. There are numerous free resources available to help with intervening in an addicted person's destructive path. Follow the link below to start your journey and receive the help and support you may need to make that first step.
Admitting that there is an issue, as cliché as it may sound, truly is the first step. Having an open and honest conversation, expressing concern and love for the individual is the best way to begin to enact true change in his or her life.
Lawrence Stansberry, A New Orleans resident, has worked as a Drug Intervention Officer at Jefferson Parish Department of Juvenile Services, and has seen the effects of drug addiction in teens firsthand. He believes that teens who have support from family or friends seem to have the best chance of turning their lives around and leaving their addiction behind for good.
Addressing the issue is key. Letting go of the fear that may be holding you back from speaking to an addicted loved one will only further hurt the person and feed the dangerous behavior. There are numerous free resources available to help with intervening in an addicted person's destructive path. Follow the link below to start your journey and receive the help and support you may need to make that first step.