Losing a Loved One to Addiction: What to Do Now

In 2021 alone, there were 107,622 drug overdose deaths in the United States.¹ These are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, friends, cousins, children, coworkers, aunts, and uncles all lost to an overdose, an unnecessary and preventable death. It leaves a severe rift in the lives of those who knew that person and can have a resounding impact for years to come. When someone dies from an overdose, it is sad no matter who they are, but when you are the one losing a loved one to addiction, it can be especially devastating.

What to Do After Losing Someone to Addiction

As a Lake Worth drug rehab, we see the devastating effects of addiction every day. We have talked with patients and loved ones who have lost someone to this horrible disease, and some of our staff members have also experienced this firsthand. We know that this is an emotional time, and you may be feeling lost or overwhelmed, but we want to help. While your grief may feel overwhelming, here are a few tips on how to cope with losing a loved one to addiction.

Take Time to Grieve

Losing anyone to addiction is sad, but losing a family member to drugs can be especially taxing. It is okay to grieve. Grief is a part of the healing process. Do not forget to be patient with yourself. It’s critical to exercise patience and compassion with yourself after losing a loved one. Grief is a difficult, intensely private process that develops at its own speed. It’s normal to feel a variety of emotions, such as confusion, guilt, rage, and despair. Give yourself the time and room to work through these feelings without criticism or pressure to “move on.” Recognize that there is no set timetable for grieving and that healing takes time. As you learn to manage life without your loved one, have patience with yourself. Recognizing that growth may come in waves, don’t forget to enjoy any tiny wins and accomplishments along the way. Allow yourself to experience both good and terrible days, keeping in mind that recovery does not have a set timetable of events.

Remember That Everyone Grieves Differently

When someone dies from an overdose, not everyone will react the same way. Grief is complicated and different for everyone. Do not criticize how someone else is grieving. While some people may withdraw and need their own space, others could turn to loved ones for solace and support. Without placing constraints or deadlines, give each person the freedom to grieve in their own time and at their own speed.

Support One Another

During the process of healing and recovery after loss, support for one another is essential. Recognize that each individual who is affected by the loss may be coping with particular feelings and difficulties. Create a secure environment for honest conversation and shared sadness by being a caring, nonjudgmental presence. Pay close attention to one other’s tales, recollections, and emotions while validating and recognizing their suffering. Consider performing deeds of compassion and empathy, such as keeping in touch frequently, offering a shoulder to cry on, or lending a hand when necessary.

Prioritize Self Care

When a loved one passes away from addiction, it is crucial to put self-care first while you go through the difficult grieving process. Self-care is essential for your recovery process because grieving can have a substantial negative impact on your emotional, physical, and mental health. Spend time nurturing yourself by doing things that make you feel safe and at ease. This can be engaging in regular exercise, practicing mindfulness or meditation, getting treatment or counseling, spending time in nature, or just giving oneself permission to unwind occasionally.

Seek Professional Help

While it is okay to be sad, you do not need to deal with your overdose grief alone. If you find that your grief seems too overwhelming or you simply cannot move forward, get professional help. There are plenty of resources out there that can help, especially if you find yourself feeling suicidal. Talk to a therapist, find an overdose support group, look for help online, or read literature on the topic. If you find that your grief is leading you to poor mental health and addiction of your own, make sure to access co-occurring disorder treatment at our Banyan Lake Worth rehab to address both issues before they get worse. It is important that you ask for help when you need it.

Learn From Them

Do not let this happen to you. Losing a friend to drugs can be an eye-opener. If you did drugs together, this should be your warning that you need to stop. Take that first step and find a residential addiction treatment program that can offer the all-encompassing assistance and direction required to beat addiction. You can receive services that can help you on your road to recovery and that will provide you with expert medical care, treatment, and access by enrolling in a residential program. Remember that asking for help is a brave choice that can save your life and give you a chance to build a happier, healthier future. Accept this opportunity for improvement and surround yourself with a caring community as you set out on your own recovery journey.

Take Action

Losing someone to overdose can be so distressing because it could have been avoided. By raising awareness and actively taking part in the fight against addiction, you can use your suffering and grief as a catalyst for change.

There are many ways to make a difference in addiction recovery. Make use of your personal experience to inform others about the risks associated with substance usage, the symptoms of addiction, and the resources available for recovery and treatment. Advocate for improved access to addiction treatment, support networks, and harm reduction techniques. Spend some of your free time helping organizations that support those struggling with addiction, their family, or the prevention of addiction. To battle stigma and inspire others, share your story through public speaking, writing, or social media.

Prevent Overdose With BHOPB

Losing a loved one to addiction may feel like the end of the world, but it doesn’t have to be. You can move past this, and you can do something about it. If you or someone you care about is in the midst of active addiction, withdrawal management at the BHOPB detox center could be especially useful. This ensures that the prospect of withdrawal won’t result in a person resorting back to drug use, keeping them from putting their life at risk.

If you are afraid your loved one could overdose or you are ready to take that first step to get help for yourself, do not wait. Reach out to us today at 561-220-3981 to learn more.

Source:

1. Center for Disease Control and Prevention –  U.S. Overdose Deaths In 2021 Increased Half as Much as in 2020 – But Are Still Up 15%

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