I have a loved one that
needs help. What can I do?
Heartbroken, Overwhelmed, Frustrated, Guilty.
Friends and family members of people suffering from addiction,
eating disorders or mental illness have often reached a point of
despair by the time they come to us seeking help. Although they may
feel isolated and powerless, we reassure them that they are not
alone. In the United States, 1 in 4 people suffer from some type of
condition requiring professional mental health assistance. Wekiva
Springs is here to help your loved one.
Did I do something to cause this condition? Many friends and family
members ask themselves this question. Parents, especially, often
feel guilty about the way they have acted toward their daughter in
the past.
Regardless of past experiences, each person is ultimately
responsible for the actions and choices made in this life.
By the same token, each of us can help or hinder others through our
own life choices and actions. While only the patient can make the
decision to get help, friends and family members can provide
valuable, nurturing support and encouragement during the recovery
process.
What can I do
to help?
- Become educated on eating disorders, addiction or the diseases
you suspect may be affecting your loved one.
- Remember the limits of your influence. Families can offer help,
but they cannot make someone do something they dont want to do.
Often families try to take control of the loved one which does not
generally produce positive long-term results.
-
Consider an Intervention.
-
Participate in treatment.
-
Join a local support group. Friends and family also need the
support of other families through this difficult time.
What does not help?
- Enabling the patient to continue to abuse or go untreated by
providing financial support
- Ignoring the problem in hopes it goes away
- Trying to control the loved ones and force them to get
help.
Each individual situation is different so it is important that
you speak to a clinical professional about your unique situation.
We have counselors available to speak to you regarding your
individual situation. Contact Us
