Often family members are hesitant to confront an addict about the problems associated with her addictive behavior, out of fear that the addict will dissociate herself from the family. “It’s better that I know where she is…” is a comment made frequently by family members. However, if there are never any consequences in the family for practicing an addiction, there likely won’t be any recovery. Why should the addict get treatment if she can practice her addiction and have her rent, car payment, cell phone, utilities, and other needs met at the same time? If you want the addict in your life to recover, it is important that you set firm, yet loving boundaries. It is not o.k. for you to be hurt in order for the addiction to continue. Recovery includes setting boundaries and assistance for those who love the addict, not just the addict herself.
