Once your loved one has successfully become clean and abstinent from the substance that previously ruled them, you may expect the future to improve. Your loved one has completed an important first step on the journey to recovery and sustained abstinence, but the fight is not over yet. After detoxification, emotions will be very raw, and you should take any attempts at deep conversations quite slow. However, try to encourage your loved one to open up to you about why they became addicted so you can deal with the underlying causes of their substance abuse.
During their recovery, make sure they are active and participating. Ensure they are participating in support group meetings, psychotherapy, and a relapse prevention plan. Many substance abuse experts recommend these treatments continue for at least a year after your loved one becomes clean. Ending these treatments early can result in chronic relapse or eventual failure of recovery and full blown addiction, falling back into their old patterns. If your loved one wants a clean life, they will let you in more and try to avoid keeping secrets from you. There should be nothing to hide any more, although they may be shameful because of what has happened in the past. There should be a sense of sincerity that was previously missing from your interactions with your loved one.
Trust may be hard to come by during the first few months of recovery. Do not worry because as your loved one recovers, your trust will heal as well. Eventually your relationship will mend and return to its previous state, or it may become greater than it was before. Open your heart for this healing and allow forgiveness to color your actions. Be cautious and watch for relapse, but be supportive at the same time. This will be a difficult time for both of you.
Sometimes an addict can have the same attitude and reactions even though they are no longer taking the drug. This anger may be a way of coping with things they are not ready or capable of dealing with. The best way to treat this anger and attitude is to insist your loved one attend therapy for emotional issues as well as the substance abuse. Chronic relapse may also occur, which can result in full blown addiction and return to their old habits. It may begin with an urge to distance themselves from the recovery programs, and they may become manipulative and emotional. The key point is to always be looking for the facts and to trust your instincts. Don’t just take your loved one’s words, but question them respectfully. They should have no excuse to hide things, and they should want to become clean as much as you want them to.
Lead Recovery Center can help you on your recovery journey. The teams of trained professionals can help you achieve your goals and teach you the skills needed to thrive in your new life. Call (800) 380-0012 for more information on how to begin your recovery journey today!
