• Do Talk Openly and Honestly:  Express your love and concerns but don't judge or accuse.  It's important to talk about how much you care for your loved one and how you want to help them get well.  Addiction is a disease and your loved one is sick.  You wouldn't approach someone with diabetes with shame or guilt, nor should you treat your addicted loved one this way.
  
• Consider a Third Party:  If your loved one is in denial or not responding to your initial attempts at a conversation, it may be helpful to consult a professional interventionist.  A professional in this role can make recommendations about how to best approach your loved one about his/her substance issues for optimal results.
  
• Find Support for Yourself:  Many people who have a loved one struggling with substance abuse or addiction focus entirely on their loved one and neglect their own emotional health.  It's critical that as part of addressing your family member's issue you also get help for yourself.  Facilities such as Caron offer a 5-day family education program, that is free for those with loved ones attending the program.
  
• Be Prepared:  If your loved one is ready for help its best to have a few options in place.  You may want to have a psychologist on deck prepared to do a behavioral assessment to determine the most appropriate next steps for treatment.  You may want to locate a few area 12-Step meetings, so they have a safe place to go immediately for support.  Additionally, it may be helpful to find out what their insurance provider supports or what scholarship options may be available for treatment.
  
• Create a Safe Holiday Season:  If you are really concerned about a loved one's drinking during the holidays, consider eliminating alcohol from your festivities.  Instead, serve refreshing blends of lemonade, ice tea and juice.  Keep the focus on family.

To speak with a Caron professional confidentially and without judgement, contact them now or call 800-854-6023.