Supporting a loved one who is in treatment for substance use, or who is in recovery, can be an uncertain time. Fortunately, there are resources to help you.

Ask how you can help

Often, people feel like they don’t know what to say to a person seeking treatment. Because of that fear, they don’t say anything at all or may even avoid the loved one. However, for many in recovery, it’s important to know they have the support of people who care about them.

Consider asking how you can be helpful. For instance, you can offer to help with transportation to an appointment or offer to talk with them about their recovery. Be sure to respect their wishes.

“Recovery can take a long time, with lots of ups and downs. And it looks different for each person,” says Stacie Andoniadis, CareOregon’s Substance Use Disorder Program Manager. “It’s not a linear process, and that can feel scary, both for the person in recovery and for the people supporting them.”

Stacie says it’s normal for recovery to take multiple attempts, and at times, many years. “The goal is to celebrate progress and be supportive, as best as we can,” she says.

Learn about resources

It helps to learn more about substance use and recovery. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has a helpful guide called Words Matter. This site explains some helpful terms and words to avoid.

Stacie also recommends people learn about naloxone, a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. Having naloxone on hand can help protect a person from a fatal overdose while they are going through recovery. Naloxone is available by prescription, at many pharmacies or through your county’s public health department.

Take care of yourself

Finally, it’s important to take care of your own well-being. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about your physical health or consider getting mental health support. There are also support groups available for people affected by the substance use of a family member or loved one, like Al-Anon or Smart Recovery Family & Friends.