January 26, 2022Tyler Collins
No one ever wants to tell their parents that they are an addict. It is a difficult conversation that can leave both parties feeling vulnerable and exposed.
But if you are struggling with substance abuse, it is important to let your loved ones know what you are going through to get the support that you need. Letting them know is a great first step towards recovery.
Here are some tips for breaking the news to your parents and helping them understand what you are going through.
Hopefully, these tips can help you have a productive conversation with your parents about drug addiction.
1) Plan What You Are Going to Say
Before you even approach your parents to have a conversation, it’s advisable to plan what you’re going to say. You have to be open and honest with your parents, so you need to have everything prepared.
The first thing that you want to do is explain what your addiction is. For example, are you abusing alcohol or illegal drugs? Next, explain how it has affected your life. Have you experienced legal problems because of drug use? Do you feel like your substance abuse is uncontrollable? Your parents may also ask how it happened, why you did it, and how it happened.
These are just some of the common questions that loved ones ask when faced with this situation. While you might not exactly know the answers to everything, try your best to answer these questions as best as you can.
Avoid vague answers like “I don’t know” or “It just happened.” Instead, think of the exact reasons and work on your response before talking to your parents.
2) Find the Right Timing
Timing is very important especially when you are about to disclose personal information to your loved ones. It can make or break the entire conversation, so it is important to do some research on the best time for this discussion.
When you approach your parents, make sure that they are not busy with work or other obligations. Distractions like these could affect their attention towards your words and cause them to lose focus. Make sure that you are also sober and thinking clearly.
It’s better to tell them that you want to have a sit-down conversation with them to tell them something important. If they are busy, schedule a time where all of you can sit and talk. This way, they can prepare themselves that you have something serious to say.
You can say:
- “I have something important to tell you. Can we sit down and talk.”
- “When are you free to talk? I have something serious and personal to share with you.”
- “I am going through something and I would like to share this with you. Can we find a good time to sit and talk about it?”
3) Honestly Talk About What You’re Going Through
When you start the conversation, express your thoughts and feelings with sincerity. Don’t hold anything back and do not make excuses. Own up to your mistakes and apologize for them.
It is possible that your family may already suspect that you are struggling with substance abuse. They may not have suspected it before, but they must have noticed a change in your personality or general behavior.
4) Stay Calm Even When Your Family Becomes Emotional
Some parents may not react well when you first tell them about your addiction. It can be a shock and can be overwhelming to receive such news from their child. Make sure you are ready to face their reaction.
When your parents express their dismay or their anger, you have to stay calm. They may start crying or yelling at you but it is best not to match their emotions. Avoid being on the defensive. Do not shout back or make insensitive remarks. Even if they say harsh words, you should not respond in the same manner.
Staying calm is key to helping your parents understand what you are going through. If you happen to lose your temper or become emotional, it will only make them angrier and less likely to listen to you. The best thing that you can do is to stay quiet until they have calmed down and then answer their questions with respect.
5) Reassure Them That You Want to Change
It’s very difficult how your parents will react to this conversation but always keep in mind that you are doing this step because you want to change for the better. You have to give your reassurance that you will work hard towards recovery.
Just like how you need to be honest with them, make sure that they know your intentions as well. If you already have a plan, share it with them. If you need their help to contact a treatment center, ask for their help.
Your parents may be disappointed in you but remember that they will always want what is best for you and will support you through this challenging time.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, help is available.
Contact Lighthouse Treatment Center today.