When dealing with addiction, loneliness, low self-esteem, and sometimes lies are part of the every day. The struggle to maintain relationships with loved ones, friends, co-workers, and neighbors can be hard to manage, especially when you’re hiding something so significant.
Keeping your addiction a secret makes the battle with drugs or alcohol even more intense. You may feel trapped, scared, and unsure if you can hide in this darkness without doing something about it.
But there is a place to start. Admitting to yourself there’s an issue, facing it head on, and talking to others you trust can lift an enormous weight off your shoulders. Confiding is not a cure, but it is a step toward sobriety.
Broaching the Subject
Bringing up your addiction is perhaps the hardest part. There will probably never be a “right time” to face your fears and strike up what is sure to be an uncomfortable conversation admitting your addiction.
Remember, this discussion doesn’t have to be perfect or even go smoothly. As long as you’re honest and open, you’ll do just fine. You could talk to someone nearby in Vero Beach, or give a call to someone you can count on who is miles away. Ultimately, it’s important to seek out a person who is caring and concerned, but who will also tell you the truth even if it is hard to handle.
Be sure to give your confidant a heads up as to what your conversation will center around; you don’t want to catch him or her by surprise. This will also him them a chance to prepare—something that will make the discussion more direct and helpful. Be straightforward when you speak, don’t deny or dodge the subject, and ready yourself for a reaction.
Managing Feedback
Naturally, the person you confide in will have a response. She may take a moment to process and offer advice, give appreciation for your openness, and help you decide on rehab or another sound solution to tackle your addiction.
On the other hand, he may have a sudden or shocked response, which could include disappointment, frustration, anger, or all of the above. You never know what sort of feedback you’ll receive, so don’t let a less-than-loving reaction make you regret your choice to confide.
Just like it won’t be easy to make your initial confession, it could be complex for this person to understand what you’re dealing with and how they can contribute to your recovery. Someone who cares about your well-being will be there for you, however, whether it’s instantaneous or support that progresses over time.
Planning For the Future
When you admit your addiction and share your story facing the future comes next. You’ve let someone in on your struggle, so allow her be a shoulder to lean on as you start your recovery process.
Talking to others about your addiction is powerful. It puts the accountability on you to see things through and share the rest of your journey. Just like the addiction itself, this opening-up process may be painful, but the best part is that there’s now someone to share your secret and see to it that you succeed.
Learn more about our holistic treatments in the Vero Beach, FL area. Connect with our trained admissions counselors at 866-349-1770.