The rising number of alcoholics is alarming. And the most horrifying news is that most alcohol dependents deny it and reject the thought of getting professional intervention.
Drinking alcoholic beverages is a common activity. For generations, it has been a “rite of passage” into adulthood. Our society (and countless others around the world) considers it normal, especially during social events and special occasions either with family or friends. With so many gatherings and occasions, the constant increase of alcohol dependent population has also become a norm.
The Alcoholism Statistics revealed that:
- Approximately 6.6 million of those who are below 18 years old with at least one alcoholic parent has alcohol dependency.
- An estimate of 43% of adults (76 million individuals) in the United States have a family member suffering from alcoholism, may be a parent, sibling, spouse, or child.
- Almost 14 million American adult citizens are alcoholic dependents.
A person addicted to alcohol may ultimately destroy his physical well-being, emotional health, family relationships, and career. They may reach the point where they are already unable to function well; so, they start losing friends, but gain a lot of temporary companions. Denial of their addiction, more than anything else, keeps them away from reaching out for help.
It is very heartbreaking and frustrating to watch someone dear to you struggle with alcoholism. You end up hopeless also because of their refusal for professional help.
You can find lots of options to help an alcohol dependent who refuses to seek for assistance. If you have a loved one who is not willing to accept the situation, this article will help you deal with him or her.
Educating Yourself
The first step in dealing with an alcoholic who frequently rejects your help is to understand alcoholism. There is available information on the internet regarding alcoholism, its effects, and the most appropriate interventions. Knowing all about these can help you understand their feelings and being well-versed about alcoholism will make your loved one feel that you take his or her struggles seriously.
Being Compassionate & Honest
Alcoholics are very sensitive because of their situation. Be compassionate and conscientious at all times. Despite their situation, most of them can distinguish genuine help from getting rid of a burden. Also, open up about what you have learned about addiction and its treatment options in the calmest way possible. Use words that carry a positive message of concern. You have to help them realize that alcoholism is the problem and not them.
Remaining Patient
Being calm and patient with the person is the toughest part in dealing with an active alcoholic. For a fact, he or she will be in denial and you will be avoided through a lot of excuses, and could even violent responses. There will be times where you will also lose temper and hope. However, making them feel like a disappointment cannot help them. Blaming or shaming them will make them turn to alcohol even more.
Staging an intervention may be the best way to help someone with an alcohol dependence problem. You will need the help of professionals because no phase in the healing process is easy.
