It doesn’t come lightly to find out that your sibling has a drug problem. It makes you wonder how it’s possible that you didn’t see it coming. As much as you might be close with your sibling drug issues are easy to hide. In order to continue using drugs, addicts come up with various strategies to remove suspicion from themselves. Once drug usage becomes obvious, an addict is already at the stage where they need professional help. Unfortunately, this is where challenges begin for many who want to help their loved ones struggling with addiction. Denial, harsh words, and an intense atmosphere become inevitable. If this is something you’re going through right now, take time to read this guide and learn how to deal with a drug addicted sibling in the best way possible.
Bright Futures Treatment Center counts as one of the best addiction treatment Boynton Beach FL facilities. By implementing the latest methods in addiction treatments, we make sure to help patients leave addiction in the past and embrace a healthier life.
When dealing with a drug-addicted individual, you must remain rational
You’ve realized your sibling is abusing drugs, and wonder how to approach the situation. First, remember that you are the one who must exercise patience. Start by telling your sibling that you have knowledge of their drug problem. Do it in a non-invasive, and non-judgemental way. Let him/her know you care about their lives and want to help them. Help from the rest of the immediate family members and closest friends will be necessary. You’ll have to organize an intervention and do your best to convince a struggling sibling to enter rehab. Let everyone know they must refrain from judgemental comments. Don’t do anything that would further scare your sibling away from getting the necessary help.
If your sibling refuses to enter rehab, these might be the reasons:
- Chances are that your sibling has tried several times to withdraw from drugs. Keep in mind that self-withdrawals can be excruciating, which is why struggling individuals avoid rehab. They associate recovery with the pain they don’t wish to go through again.
- Fear of abandonment is common among addicts who enter meth rehab Florida program.
- Deep down, they don’t believe there’s a chance for recovery and a fresh start.
Your sibling’s drug problem isn’t a secret you should promise to keep
Individuals struggling with addiction are committed to doing the best they can to convince you not to tell anyone. Before you know it, you’re trapped in a web of emotional blackmails. Don’t be surprised if sentences such as “If you care about me, you won’t tell a soul!” come up. When addiction overtakes one’s life, it’s hard for one to get out of it. Instead of seeking help, your sibling is likely to seek ways to cover up the problem. At that stage, your brother or sister is likely to use your love for them against you. However, remain composed and don’t let their opinion of you affect you.
Don’t judge your siblings for their addiction problems
Accepting that your beloved brother or sister jeopardized their life can be hard. However, you must make peace with the fact they need help in every way possible. Be careful not to openly judge them for their choices. It will only exacerbate the feeling of guilt they already have. Also, pay attention to the feelings you have towards your siblings. Are you angry, disappointed, sad, or frustrated? All of these are normal to feel, especially when you actually find out about the problem. However, don’t let the negative feelings stay for too long. Focus on the fact it’s still your sibling, but in need of help.
If you wonder why would your sibling engage in addictive behaviors when everything seemed normal, take a few steps back. Rewind previous days or weeks and see if the evidence was there all along. Moreover, be open to the fact that something wasn’t wrong in the first place. As it’s already said, addiction sometimes isn’t as obvious. Therefore, try to remain open to the possibility that there are underlying problems your sibling is probably facing.
Don’t blame yourself
Are you a sibling who is usually taking on a role of a protector? The majority of elder or more protective siblings often struggle with shame or guilt for not being able to see the signs of a drug problem. If this is you, know that you’ve been doing the best you could. Your sibling is still a person on their own who lives a different life. No matter how caring you are, you can’t control what the other person is doing. Also, as much as you are an example to your sibling, it still doesn’t mean they won’t make wrong choices. So, start by accepting the situation. Try to understand what led to this and let your loved one know you are there for them.
Find the right rehab facility
Search online rehab centers that provide a safe environment and all the necessary treatments. Furthermore, find out if they also offer medical detox. Your sibling will have to get the drugs out of their system first, then enter an adequate rehab program.
Individuals who abuse substances grow to learn the painful repercussions of withdrawals. Many of them don’t see a difference between self-withdrawal and medically-assisted withdrawal. The latter might still be uncomfortable, however, it’s a safe the safest way to get rid of substances. Explain to your sibling that detox is the least painful procedure, contrary to what they believe.
Look for the right treatment
The substance your sibling was using will determine the kind of treatment you should seek. For instance, if opioids are the issue, seek an oxycodone rehab program. Since each substance does different damage to the body and brain, there can’t be universal drug treatment. Therefore, focus on rehab centers that provide the exact treatment your sibling needs.
Therapy will be required
Medical treatment for addiction is just the tip of the iceberg. What plays a huge part in the addiction issue is the psychological aspect. To get out of the addiction habits completely, your sibling must undergo psychotherapy. Fortunately, many rehab centers utilize behavioral therapy as an integral factor. Without therapy, patients can’t overcome their addiction problems in their entirety. Compared to medical detox, therapy sessions last the longest. It takes time and patience to get to the underlying issues.
Mental health issues can be treated alongside addiction problem
Are you worried whether your sibling will be able to enter rehab due to anxiety, BPD, depression, or any mental issue? Rest assured that modern rehab centers provide adequate treatments to tackle each problem at the same time. When substance abuse and mental health issues go hand in hand, it’s important to treat them simultaneously.
Dual Diagnosis is the method treatment centers use to find the link between mental health struggles and addiction and tackle it the right way. That means:
- Prescribing proper medications that won’t tamper with addiction recovery.
- A series of one-on-one therapy sessions.
Although mental health and addiction seem like two separate issues, the truth is that mental health significantly affects addictive patterns. Therefore, make sure to search for rehab centers that implement Dual Diagnosis. That way, your sibling will get all the help required.
Inquire about residential drug treatments
When addiction overtakes one’s problem, the only solution is to spend time in a safe residential area where patients receive round-the-clock care. If this is the case with your sibling, then residential drug treatment Florida is the solution. Your brother/sister will spend at least 30 days in a facility. The residential stay can be extended if necessary.
The place where your sibling will stay for the next period must be clean, well-ventilated, and comfortable. So, look for treatment centers that offer no less than that. The environment in which individuals with addiction problems are trying to get better is of the utmost importance.
Ways to fund your sibling’s recovery
Costs of rehab often discourage many from getting the necessary treatments and medications. However, the good news is that the law recognizes mental health and addiction problems as important as physical injuries. That being said, you can apply for an insurance coverage plan and therefore make it easier to fund your sibling’s rehab. Just keep in mind that not all insurance plans are the same. For example, people often wonder if Cigna covers drug rehab, or if it’s specifically for alcohol addiction cases.
When checking does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover rehab your sibling requires, don’t forget to ask about the application process. You must know if your sibling is eligible for any specific insurance coverage you consider.
Don’t overextend with personal finance
When a loved one is in trouble, or stuck with drug-related issues like in this case, you’d go above and beyond to help them get back on track. However, here’s where you must draw the line. Let your sibling know you’ll be funding their rehab only. Once they’re discharged from the hospital, they must do their best to re-socialize again, find a job, and build a new life by making healthier choices. As much as you’re willing to give them financial backup, you can only do it to a certain extent. Remember that your sibling must learn from their past choices and regain a sense of responsibility.
As previously mentioned, insurance coverage plans can make the financial aspect of rehab a lot easier. So, make sure to verify does Tricare cover alcohol rehab and drug rehab. Learn about the documentation you need to submit and start with the application process as soon as possible.
Make sure the rehab center you chose accepts the insurance plan
Most rehab facilities accept some of the most commonly used insurance plans, like Humana. However, it’s worth checking does Humana cover drug rehab at a treatment center you chose for your sibling. If you have trouble managing the paperwork necessary for an insurance application, you can ask the staff from the rehab center for guidance.
Another commonly asked question is “Is drug rehab covered under FMLA?”. To be assured FMLA is the right insurance coverage choice, contact rehab centers first.
Make a list of rehab facilities that accept insurance options your sibling qualifies for
Looking for the right insurance coverage can help you find the right rehab center. First, list the insurance options your sibling qualifies for. Next, search online for rehab facilities. After you ensure a rehab center provides the best residential conditions and treatments, check the insurance coverage plans the treatment center approves. Usually, Aetna and other major insurance plans are mentioned on the rehab center’s official website. However, in order to avoid being unpleasantly surprised, call the rehab facility and ask does Aetna cover drug rehab and to what extent.
Is it safe o use online crowdfunding platforms?
Platforms like GoFundMe are widely used to raise funds for various kinds of personal causes. All you have to do is post a certain amount of money and an explanation of what are they for. People usually donate as much as they’re willing to. That’s why a social media following can be helpful to spread the word.
How to deal with a drug addicted sibling during rehab
Once your sibling enters rehab, you’ll definitely feel at ease for some period. You’ll know that your brother or sister is in a safe place and taken care of. However, don’t dismiss the importance of family support and encouragement. Go for a visit whenever you have the chance. Offer words of encouragement and show that you’re proud of your sibling for their efforts. That means a lot to them, especially at times when their addiction feels like a never-ending loop.
Suggest outdoor activities once they complete the rehab program
Studies show that hiking, climbing, and kayaking benefit recovering addicts in many ways:
- Outdoor activities give them a sense of accomplishment.
- The landscape they observe while hiking calms their mind.
- They can cope with cravings without many difficulties.
- Any kind of outdoor activity is great for mental health as well.
Many rehab centers deploy such activities as additions to the heroin rehab Florida program. In case your sibling isn’t interested in the outdoors, simple sports activities can also be of great help. You might also consider Yoga for regaining body flexibility and recovering muscles.
Encourage them to open up about how they feel
Facing consequences for behaviors that led to addiction never comes easy. That’s why emotional support is important for an individual in the process of recovery. Let your sibling know they can open up about the way they feel. Remind them they can trust you and you won’t judge them.
Consider sober living home
For those who don’t feel ready to return to society, a sober living home serves as a smooth transition. A patient living in a sober living home must follow house rules, fulfill daily chores, and therefore regain a sense of responsibility.
Start a conversation about aftercare treatment and relapse prevention
The sooner you have a conversation about the aftercare, the easier it will be to convince your sibling to stick to post-rehab treatments. Aftercare helps patients apply skills they learned during therapies in everyday life. The good news is that most Adderall addiction rehab Boynton Beach centers provide effective aftercare programs. That means your sibling will have to attend therapy every week, and committ to a relapse prevention plan. The purpose isn’t just to keep a recovering addict sober. The way your sibling lives their life is also essential to the outcome of their rehab. Also, Aftercare entails family therapy, which further strengthens the bond between recovering addicts and their loved ones.
Take a look at your sibling’s relapse prevention plan. Learn about their triggers, both internal and external. See what kinds of activities help them take their mind off cravings and other issues that bother them. You can also talk about stress management levels.
Take care of yourself as well
Addiction also affects immediate family and closest friends. Don’t try to bottle up negative feelings – they are completely normal to feel in this situation. Go to therapy sessions once in a while whenever you feel the need to share how you feel in a safe place. A therapist can also give you proper guidance if you find feel lost and don’t know how to deal with a drug addicted sibling in any different, more effective way. So, remember to take care of your well-being too. Prioritize the time for yourself, and reduce stress levels as much as you can. Go for a 20-minute run, or for a quick gym session. The point is to find proper ways to vent out whenever you feel sad, frustrated, etc. You can help anyone if you don’t pay attention to your own needs.
You’re not a bad person for experiencing a negative train of thought. Don’t hesitate to put them on paper, or share them with a therapist. Negative thoughts in this case are resulting from a feeling of helplessness.
Contact us at Bright Futures Treatment Center
Rest assured your sibling will be safe at Bright Futures Treatment Center from the moment they enter rehab. We gather a team of expert professionals who know how to address all pillars of an addiction disorder and help patients restore balance in their life. Addiction is a disease that can affect anyone. On the other hand, a complete recovery is possible. Besides drug and alcohol rehabs, we offer some of the best Florida prescription drugs addiction treatment as well.
Whether you seek crack cocaine rehab centers or any other kind of treatment, feel free to give us a call. Our team will guide you through rehab programs, the admission process, etc. Be sure your sibling will get the best care you can think of.
We provide medical assistance, therapy, and supplementary activities
In order to help our patients find joy in life after long periods of drug abuse, we make sure to address every issue related to addiction. That’s why we adopted a holistic approach to addiction treatment, where each segment – mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical – equally matters. That said, we include activities like kayaking, meditation, and Yoga, all done in a safe, non-judgemental surrounding. Our care coordinators are there to ensure each activity goes smoothly.
Keep in mind that addiction recovery can be a long process
You can also contact addiction recovery professionals and ask them how to deal with a drug addicted sibling who continuously refuses help. In fact, relying on professionals will save you plenty of time and headaches. They have been in multiple similar situations, so they can know how to soften their sibling’s stubbornness and convince them to enter rehab. However, you must also be prepared for the fact that addiction can be a lifelong process. Maintaining sobriety will be crucial especially once the rehab is completed. It helps to talk with professionals and prepare ahead for possible relapse scenarios. When it comes to addiction, you have to be a few steps ahead. So, make sure to educate yourself on the topic and use all available resources.