While undergoing treatment a patient is at a very critical stage. The withdrawal symptoms, the medication and the drug itself take a very heavy toll on mind and body alike and the patient needs to exercise extreme resistance and care.
However, it is important to note that family participation can be extremely beneficial to the recovering patient. Care and support at all stages of treatment and even post-treatment can help boost the patient’s morale and confidence in him.
Parents should never force their children to join a rehab centre. They can however influence and encourage the choice. A large of rehab programmers fail because the children did not want to join them in the first place. After that parents should also undergo counseling so as to deal with the patient effectively during and post treatment. They should avoid giving in to the whims of their children. They should try and learn as much as possible about addiction etc. and thoroughly understand their child’s case history so as to have knowledge of what the child is going through. They need to be at the listening end and not the lecturing end while dealing with the child. You need to show the child that all is well and that there is hope.
Parents can actively participate in some of the group exercises along with their children. They should open doors for two way communication. They should avoid self blame and avoid shredding off the responsibility. Parents need to realize the recovery potential of the child and prevent him from any kind of stress. Keep a check on the amount of money your child spends post treatment. Help the child believe in himself and assure him of your constant care and support. Do not keep any qualms about the things said and done. Help him start anew and fresh.
Above all, be a friend to your child. Create a relationship based on trust and confidence. Help him know you are there for him. Be his confidante. Boost his self worth and self esteem.
In recent years families are becoming increasingly disconnected and fragmented. Even under the same roof, the members are unaware of what is happening in other person’s life. Try and avoid such indifference. Show care and concern without being overbearing.
Nick Hayes is a graduate of the Narconon drug rehab program in 2005. Nick takes much enjoyment in writing, and feels there needs to be more information about drugs and alcohol provided to the people of the world. He believes nobody should have to go through an addiction.