Find hope for those you love who struggle with addiction by helping yourself.
Nearly half of all Americans have a family member or a close friend who has struggled with the disease of addiction, had their lives affected by someone surviving an overdose, or lost someone to this disease.
Addiction impacts the lives of the person struggling as well as those connected to them. It’s not easy to care forsomeone dealing with the disease of addiction. You are not alone. On International Overdose Awareness Day, we want you to know there are resources and a chance for recovery – for the person struggling and those affected. Seeking support from others who understand this experience is life-changing to find hope.
Start by learning more about addiction as a disease. Local and virtual meetings for family and friends affected by addiction include Smart Recovery and Al-Anon. You’ll not only find a network of support; you’ll also learn addiction is not caused, cured, or controlled by anyone’s family or friends. You may also want to seek the services of a counselor.
While isolation, shame, and guilt are common emotions surrounding addiction, there is hope for family and friends of those struggling with addiction whether your loved one continues to use, has overdosed, or finds recovery.
TALKING TO YOUR LOVED ONE
Heads up—the conversation will not be easy, but it’s important. Start the discussion open and judgment-free. Tell your loved one that you’re concerned, and you’d like to help them if they’d like help. Get more tips for talking with your loved one.
Even people who are ready to address their addiction may put it off because it’s overwhelming to find the right kind of treatment. Learn about options and help your loved one find a program in their area. Contact your onsite EAP counselor or Anthem EAP to confidentially access benefits information about treatment options.
Onsite EAP Counselor/Behavioral Health Specialist
Stephanie Medley
502-452-0777
Anthem Behavioral Health
855-873-4932
AnthemEAP.com
Code: GEAppliances
To learn more about substance use/misuse/overdose and how to support a loved one, listen to this recorded webinar by our onsite EAP Counselor/Behavioral Health Specialist, Stephanie Medley.