Addiction to alcohol or drugs can be a difficult thing for a person to go through. The addiction also tends to negatively impact the lives of family and loved ones. Compassion is an important virtue to have whether you are the one suffering from the addiction and needing to understand how your actions have impacted others, or whether you are watching someone you love fight an addiction.
How Compassion Can Help Someone with an Addiction
There is a difference between enabling an addict and showing them compassion. One way to be compassionate toward someone suffering from addiction is to try to understand what is going on in their mind. Open the door to have a true and deep conversation, and you will both learn more about each other. This can also help repair your relationship if it has been harmed throughout their addiction.
Having Compassion for Your Own Addiction
If you are the one suffering from the addiction, it is important to remember to have compassion for yourself. You may think negative thoughts as you become sober, especially if there were people that you hurt during the time you were suffering from your addiction. You may feel like it is impossible to build your life back together. Remember to have compassion for yourself and to forgive yourself for any mistakes that you made along the way. Keep in mind that there will be opportunities to mend any fractured relationships with others down the road once you have advanced in your recovery. It is important to forgive yourself and to focus on moving forward in a positive way.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse addiction of any kind, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. The Tharros House is a sober living home for men located in the Lexington, Massachusetts area. The living facility offers structure and regular meetings to help their residents remain dedicated to their sobriety. Contact us today to learn more about the Tharros House and whether it may be the right choice for you.
