Alcohol addiction affects everyone in the family, not just the addict. Setting boundaries is the best approach to helping an addict, yourself, and other family members involved with the person. Without boundaries, you’ll lose yourself, freedom, and personal space.
No Drug Using Friends Are Allowed
Even if your sibling isn’t using alcohol at the time, their pals are. You shouldn’t put up with a drunk person in your house. Confront your loved ones and their friends and tell them point-blank that you don’t want them in your home. This way, you’ll reduce the impact of addiction on the family by setting such a strict boundary.
No Using Drugs At Home
It’s best to set a boundary that will prevent your loved one from using alcohol at home or within the compound. If the expectation is not met, let them know there are consequences.
Not Covering Their Mistakes
Many people in active addiction beg their loved ones to lie to them about missing work, class, or other important family meetings. Let your loved ones know that you will not manipulate others and that they will be accountable for their actions.
If They Don’t Stop Drinking, You’ll Cut Ties With Them
Tell your siblings that you cannot assist them when they are addicted and limit your time with them. This will force them to seek treatment. Let them know you’ll support them if they decide to attend an Impact Recovery Center when the time comes.
If You’re Arrested, No One Will Bail You Out
It is against the law to drink and drive and have drugs. Addicts are fully aware that they are breaking the law. Let your loved ones know you are not ready to bail them out or give them any form of assistance if they are arrested, and you will not take any blame if they rot in jail.
No Money for Rent or Bills
Giving money to an alcoholic is the last thing you should do. Whenever a loved one asks for money, claiming it’s for personal use, there’s a high chance they are lying. Declaring that you will not give them money shows them that you aren’t ready to support them through their addiction. This way, they will either look for addiction help or go back to work.
Family Members Should Be Treated With Respect
Keep your values, ideas, and inspirations, and don’t let an addict control you. Set limits to stop insults and ridicule of you and other family members. This way, an addict will know you are tired of tolerating their bad behavior and language. You have the right to be respected by addicts and their friends.
Observe Time For Breakfast, Lunch, Or Dinner
Family members never put themselves first when dealing with an addict. This causes them to lose peace of mind when worrying about someone’s drinking problems. That shouldn’t be the case. Let your siblings know that no one will serve them later if they are not present for meals. Because they don’t have money for food, they will stick to the schedule and stop inconveniencing others.
Decide On The Consequences
Decide on what will happen if your sibling crosses the boundaries. Boundaries without consequences are useless since nothing will drive the person to recognize their mistakes. It is not enough to simply tell someone when they do something wrong.
Setting boundaries is vital for both you and the addict. You will stay focused on yourself and avoid emotional roller-coaster rides with boundaries. You’ll think more clearly, regain your self-respect, and encourage your loved one to seek treatment. Eventually, they will be forced to accept their mistake and seek help.
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