Rehab Services
Rehab Services. How to assist a parent struggling with alcohol issues or addiction
Having a parent who is clearly battling addiction or whom you suspect may have a problem can be an incredibly challenging situation to navigate.
Rest assured, there is plenty of support available for both you and them. You don’t have to face this alone or feel embarrassed.
Addiction can impact anyone; it’s not a matter of blame and is a more prevalent issue than many realise.
Alcohol dependency is estimated to affect one in every 100 individuals, and four out of five people with alcohol dependence are not receiving treatment.* Substance abuse is also widespread and touches lives across all demographics.
In this article, we will discuss:
How to cope with an addicted mother or father as an adult
Support for children of addicts or alcoholics
When your parent or step-parent refuses to acknowledge their drinking, drug use, or gambling
- Indicators that your mother or father may have an addiction
- The effects of a parent’s addiction on their children
- How to find treatment for a parent dealing with drug, alcohol, or addiction issues
- Arranging private rehabilitation for your mother or father
- Organisations that assist families facing addiction
- What steps to take if your parent has an addiction problem
- Navigating life with an addicted mother or father as an adult
- Dealing with an addicted parent, step-parent, or caregiver doesn’t become easier just because you are now an adult.
Living with an alcoholic parent presents different challenges compared to not living with them, but it doesn’t diminish the concern and emotional toll.
The consequences of alcoholism, drug dependency—whether from illegal substances or prescription medications—and other addictive behaviours, like gambling, can cause significant harm, distress, and anxiety, regardless of your living situation.
If your mother or father lives alone, you likely worry about their health deteriorating while you’re not around, their ability to manage bills, and other concerns.
It is crucial to seek professional help for both yourself and them – Rehab Services
Support for the child of an addict or alcoholic
It’s likely that your parent’s addiction has taken a significant toll on you, and you deserve support to look after your wellbeing.
There are numerous support groups dedicated to offering strength, guidance, and companionship to those who love individuals struggling with alcoholism and addiction.
No matter how much you may feel let down or betrayed by your mum or dad’s actions, it’s important to remember that they are not choosing to be addicted to certain behaviours, and this situation is likely causing them immense guilt and pain. They need help as well.
When your parent or step-parent is in denial about their drinking, drug use, or gambling
Addiction is frequently marked by denial, secrecy, and shame.
A parent or step-mum or dad who is battling addiction often struggles to admit it, even to themselves. They are probably the least likely to acknowledge it to their children, whom they naturally want to protect and care for.
This urge to ignore or conceal the issue can lead to further harm due to dishonesty as they attempt to hide or continue their behaviour. They may also try to shift the blame onto others, which can be hurtful and damaging to relationships.
Organising a staged intervention is one approach to confront their denial. An intervention involves gathering the people closest to your mum or dad to discuss the impact their behaviour has on those they love. Assisting an alcoholic or addict is best done by acting in a loving manner and steering clear of accusations and blame.
It’s crucial to take steps to ensure your parent does not feel isolated or victimised during an intervention or any discussion about their behaviour. If they feel this way, they are likely to become defensive and less willing to accept help. Professional assistance can be sought to facilitate a successful intervention.
An intervention should only be attempted if you are confident that your parent will not react violently or if precautions have been taken to ensure safety. Tel: 07811 606 606