Addiction Psychologist & Addiction Counselling Sydney CBD

How to Help Someone with Drug, Alcohol, or Sex Addiction and Finding Counselling in the Sydney CBD

It can be heartbreaking to watch a friend or loved one struggle with addiction. You naturally want to help but may not be sure how. You may be worried that you will say the wrong thing, approach the subject at the wrong time or even ruin your friendship. However, talking about addiction as soon as possible can make a big difference in your friend’s recovery. Addiction is a complex problem. The effects can last for years and even trigger additional problems. It’s common for people struggling with addiction to distance themselves from their friends, families, and the activities they used to enjoy. However, this is also the time when they need the support of their loved ones the most.

When you or a member of your family suffers from an addiction, whether it is to alcohol or drugs, everyone suffers. Sadly, many people are under the mistaken impression that addictions such as these are predominantly physiological, meaning that the person has nothing more than a physical addiction to the substance in question. Whilst there is no doubt that the human body can and will develop such an addiction, a skilled addiction psychologist will tell you that an addiction is just as much a mental issue as it is a physical one.

Talking to a Friend with a Drug, Alcohol, or Sex Addiction

There’s no one right way to talk to a loved one who is suffering from addiction. However, there are a few things to keep in mind that may help you have a more effective conversation about the issue.

• Talk to your friend when they are sober. Don’t initiate the conversation when your friend is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or they may be less likely to be understanding and receptive. Set aside a time for the two of you to talk alone. Voice your concerns, but also give your friend a chance to voice theirs and listen to what they say. Your goal isn’t to accuse them but rather to bring awareness of their addiction.
• Give specific examples. Sometimes, talking about specific scenarios can help you explain your concerns more clearly. For example, you might want to talk about a party you attended with your friend where they drank too much. Maybe you had to be responsible for helping your friend get home safely, and you saw the negative consequences of their alcohol use firsthand. Be honest about how their behaviour changes after drinking and why you enjoy their company so much more when they’re sober.
• Be loving and supportive. Make it clear that you are always there for your friend and that your love is unconditional. However, realise that unconditional love doesn’t mean acting like a doormat. Set clear boundaries about not being around when they are under the influence. Explain how their addiction makes you feel and why you don’t want to be a part of it.
• Encourage treatment. Don’t dwell on the negatives when it comes to talking about your friend’s addiction. Instead, focus on the benefits of seeking treatment. Offer to assist your friend in finding help. Offer reassurance and a listening ear when they participate in drug addiction counselling.

A Supportive Addiction Counsellor in Sydney

If your friend is receptive to the idea of drug, alcohol, or sex addiction counselling in the Sydney CBD, let them know they can contact Tom Gross for help. Tom Gross has been providing sex, drug, and alcohol addiction counselling in the Sydney CBD for nearly 30 years as well as support with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and more. He understands the complexities of addiction and can help by teaching people healthy ways to manage triggers and rebuild the lives they want.

Quite simply put, in order for you or a loved one to overcome an addiction, you need to spend time working with an addiction psychologist. During your sessions, the counsellor will work with you to find out what caused you to start down the road to addiction. Addicts must understand where their addiction started before they can successfully execute the tools the psychologist has taught them to overcome it. Although each counsellor has their own methods and box of tools, they all have the same goal, which is to help you or your loved one to recover from their addiction and enjoy a sober life.