It is never easy admitting you have an addiction. Addicts tend to deny this fact even when they are deeply entangled in the problem. However, the moment an addict recognizes the problem and admits it, things can change in a very short time. And if change is possible within a very short while, it is greatly because after acceptance comes support.
One category of people who can best give you the much needed support to go through your addiction are your loved ones; close family members, and friends, or maybe some colleagues. Telling them about your problem will go a long way to have them offer the best assistance they can possibly offer.
But telling a loved one that you have an addiction is not done just any way. Addiction is quite a sensitive issue, so there are a couple of things you will have consider while informing people about your problem. What are some of these things to consider? Let’s find out together.
The location and timing
It is very important to check the place and time you tell your loved ones about your addiction. If you just burst it out anywhere and anyhow, it could end up messing things for you and your loved one. You will probably not tell the problem right and they may not be able to understand your plight. You should be able to find a suitable place and time therefore to talk about your problem. That does not however mean that you should delay the conversation.
Keep your composure
As an addict, you probably have done things you cannot quite be proud of. The experiences of the past will certainly make it difficult for you to freely talk about your addiction, but that’s one of the challenges you have to overcome when you have to tell your loved one that you have an addiction. Your composure matters; be calm and take time to express yourself from the very beginning.
Be prepared
One important thing to note about telling your loved one that you have an addiction is the fact that you can never be sure of the reaction you will get. Some people will sympathize with you immediately; others may get disappointed, or upset with you. So as you set out to tell a loved one about your problem, be ready for the outcome.
Be truthful
Honesty is key in telling your loved one that you have an addiction. Telling them the entire truth about your experience makes them understand the depth of the problem more. They may be upset at the beginning, but things always turn out to be fine at the end.
If all these factors are taken into consideration, there is a high probability that you will tell your loved one that you have an addiction with no major difficulty and they will be able to understand you. That’s the first step toward recovery, and it is something addicts are highly encouraged to do. The beginning may be tough, but the end result is also great.