How to Help Someone with Addiction – ARCA Durban
Watching someone you care about struggle with addiction can be painful and overwhelming. You want to help—but you may not know how. At ARCA Durban, we understand the emotional weight this carries, and we’re here to guide you through the right steps to support your loved one toward recovery.
1. Recognize the Signs of Addiction
Addiction affects people in different ways, but some common signs include:
- Sudden mood swings or behaviour changes
- Isolation from family and friends
- Poor performance at work or school
- Financial difficulties
- Secretive or dishonest behaviour
Recognizing these early warning signs is essential in knowing when and how to intervene.
2. Educate Yourself
Understanding addiction as a medical condition—not a personal failure—helps remove judgment and stigma. Learn about:
- The nature of substance dependence
- Common withdrawal symptoms
- Mental health issues tied to addiction
- How addiction affects the brain
The more informed you are, the more effective and compassionate your support will be.
3. Communicate with Compassion
Approach your loved one with empathy. Choose a calm, private time to talk, and avoid blaming language. Use statements like:
- “I’ve noticed some changes and I’m worried about you.”
- “You’re not alone—I want to help.”
- “Have you thought about speaking to someone about this?”
Keep the tone supportive, not confrontational. The goal is to open a door, not force it open.
4. Avoid Enabling
Helping doesn’t mean doing everything for them. It’s important to set healthy boundaries:
- Don’t make excuses for their behaviour
- Don’t give money that could be used to support the addiction
- Don’t neglect your own well-being in the process
Support should empower, not enable.
5. Encourage Professional Help
Most people cannot overcome addiction without structured support. ARCA Durban offers professional, evidence-based treatment, including:
- Medically supervised detox
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Inpatient and outpatient programs
- Mental health support
- Family involvement and aftercare planning
Encouraging your loved one to seek treatment is one of the most impactful things you can do.
6. Get Support for Yourself
You can’t support someone else if you’re running on empty. Joining a support group or seeking counselling for yourself can help you:
- Set realistic expectations
- Maintain healthy emotional boundaries
- Learn how to support recovery effectively
ARCA Durban offers family support and education as part of our holistic approach.
Start the Journey with ARCA Durban
If you’re wondering how to help someone with addiction, start by reaching out. At ARCA Durban, we offer confidential assessments and tailored treatment programs that address the root causes of addiction—not just the symptoms.
Take the first step today. Contact us to learn how we can support you and your loved one toward a healthier, sober future.
