Research shows that connection is the opposite of addiction, so how do you handle the isolation your loved one creates around themselves?
I’ve seen this isolation show up as things got worse and careened towards a rock bottom, but I still see it show up at times even now when my loved one is healing and on the path to recovery. It tends to be a flag that something’s not quite right so how do you all deal with this?
I dont know what stage the person is in regarding recovery, but sometimes the substance use can find a person depressed when in recovery. There can be self reflection, guilt, social awkwardness etc. It can be a big adjustment. Sometimes the very feelings they were trying to avoid by using have resurfaced and must be dealt with. Seeing a good mental health professional could be beneficial.
All the best going forward.
Isolation can be felt by all of us and the person we love who is struggling with addiction. The person we are supporting should be going to meetings and have a sponsor. We too, can go to Al Anon meetings and have a sponsor. These external resources help all of us. We all need to feel connected - how do we help ourselves when feeling alone? When I feel left out or disconnected, I get on the phone and call someone I haven’t talked to in a long time. This helps me feel good and reconnect to the world! Other ways: Call a friend or family member? Get out and socialize or plan a lunch/dinner date, plan a trip to the library? We can do these same things with the person who is struggling with addiction as we need to do for ourselves!