7 Issues to Discuss with an IOP Specialist about a Drinking Problem
When you have a loved one who has a drinking problem, it can take a toll on you, too. As the person that is in the same household, it may be difficult for you to handle or even tolerate the kind of behavior your loved one has when they are under the influence.
Speaking to a Specialist is Beneficial
While you will also be required to talk to your loved one regarding their drinking problem, you don’t have to do it alone. You can always seek the help of a professional that will help guide you all throughout the process. Depending on how you want to approach your loved one, a specialist can also be present during the intervention.
What to Discuss With Your Specialist
In most cases, the specialist you will consult with can also provide moral support apart from the guidance the former will give in handling your loved one’s drinking problem. Here are some of the things that you can discuss with them.
1. You worry about the quantity and frequency of your loved one’s alcohol intake.
Constant worrying about how much or how often your loved one drinks can be bad for your health. There will come a point when this worry will push you to talk to your loved one. However, without any guidance, you might say the wrong things or trigger a bad reaction from your loved one. In order to know how to manage your worries and to learn how to approach your loved one, discuss your woes with a specialist.
2. You are concerned about the money spent on alcohol.
Even if it’s not your money they are spending on alcohol, it doesn’t mean that you should care less. Regardless of whose money it is, spending it on alcohol every day can also lead to future financial problems. Ask your specialist about how to tackle financial concerns with your loved one. This is also the best opportunity to ask for tips on how to manage your loved one’s expenses especially if they are dependent on you.
3. You’ve gone through situations in life where you’ve been embarrassed or hurt by your loved one due to drinking.
Drunk people can hurt or offend anyone, but this doesn’t give them a free pass to hurt or embarrass you. When it reaches this point, consult with a professional on how to manage loved ones who cause a scene in public. It might also help to ask how to prevent your loved one from drinking outside of the house.
4. You get nervous about their behavior whenever they drink.
Speaking of public humiliation, these experiences might lead you to be anxious when you are around your loved one. Hence, it is imperative that you seek consultation both for you and your loved one’s sake. If you are already experiencing anxiety, then it’s a sign that you need to seek professional help as well.
5. You come up with excuses for how they behave when they drink.
This might not be easy to spot given that it comes naturally to a lot of people to be protective about their loved ones. But this habit is not healthy especially when it prevents you from confronting the real issues. An intensive outpatient Sugarland medical professional can help you avoid that habit and work on facing your loved one’s alcohol addiction.
6. You cover or bail your loved out when they’re drinking in order to spare them from responsibilities.
When you constantly cover for your loved ones when they don’t meet their responsibilities, not only do you give yourself more work, but you also don’t teach them to learn about responsibility and accountability. Over time, your loved one might constantly ask you to do things for them. Before things get worse, ask for help on how to handle your loved one’s responsibility issues.
7. You’ve thought about calling the police in an effort to admonish your loved one’s drinking.
Whether it’s from fear of your loved one or when they are already doing illegal things, the fact that you are close to calling the police is a sign that you need to seek help. Talking with a specialist can help you cope with the situation while finding ways to prevent having to call the authorities when your loved one goes out of control.
In many cases, a specialist is essential in guiding you to deal with your loved one’s alcohol addiction. He or she may also be present when you take an intervention or they can help in making the right rehabilitation program for your loved one.