When someone is in recovery from excessive alcohol use, encouragement from the people in their lives is crucial. Without a good support system in place in all areas of their life, the struggle to stay sober can be incredibly difficult or even impossible. There are plenty of ways to help someone who has decided to quit drinking.
1. Remove Temptation
One of the best ways to help someone stay sober is by removing temptation. Get rid of all the alcohol in the house. Any parties or gatherings that are hosted at the house can be done without beer, wine or liquor. Let guests know that there will not be any alcohol served and that they should not bring any with them.
2. Be Supportive
Do not be judgmental or demeaning about things that have happened in the past. Many people who are recovering feel guilt and shame for their actions and reminding them will cause them to feel worse. Negative emotions can cause people to relapse if they do not know how to handle them. Remember that anxiety and depression are symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and that with proper treatment they can be lessened. Praise them for their decision to get help and improve their life and health.
3. Promote a Healthy Lifestyle
Excessive drinking can take a toll on a person’s health. Damage to their liver, brain functions and immune systems may occur when people drink heavily for long periods of time. Exercising and eating a healthy diet are both ways that can improve overall health the quality of their life. Try to make planning meals fun by using it as an excuse to try new foods or create a system that rewards each day or week of healthy eating with a treat. If they want to track their progress, a piece of paper can be hung up that has all the month’s successes on it.
4. Encourage Socialization
Feelings of loneliness and isolation make the recovery process much harder. Encourage socialization in the form of support groups where other people going through the same thing can be talked to. They can share tips and offer encouragement to each other on a regular basis. Go to social events together that do not involve drinking, like community classes, library events or the movies. Invite people over who are supportive of the choice to abstain from alcohol.
5. Cultivate Coping Skills
People drink for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, they drink due to underlying issues, such as depression, stress or dysfunctional relationships. Be ready to lend an ear and listen to them talk through their issues. If they are open to suggestions, offer some advice about how they can resolve their problems. If they are open to therapy, urge them to get help from a professional. Figure out good ways to destress from daily events. Meditation and exercise can improve the mood if used regularly. Be ready to lend a hand if an unusual event occurs that increases stress, such as an illness, a job loss or the loss of a close friend.
6. Learn Relapse Signs
Unfortunately, the path to recovery is not always smooth. Relapses can happen at any stage and knowing the signs is a good way to get someone help quickly. Learn the signs and create a plan so that should a relapse occur, it can be handled as quickly and smoothly as possible. Involve them in the planning process so that they know what to do and expect. Other people should be included, like close family members and friends and any treatment providers.
7. Be Patient
Recovering from alcohol addiction can be a messy process. There will be good and bad days as the person adjusts to life without alcohol. There are physical and psychological symptoms that will need to be dealt with. Try to stay calm and be kind to everyone involved. If they have a relapse they will likely feel like a failure, so having patience and compassion can help ease their feelings and return to sobriety easier.
Helping someone as they recover from their addiction can be difficult. Everyone who is part of the support system should be physically, mentally and emotionally able to effectively help. It is important to take the time to destress to stay healthy and positive.
