People do not always realize that a family member is having problems early, and by the time they do they are sometimes at a loss as to how they can help.
There is no end of things that can cause stress and anxiety, such as becoming addicted to gambling, being a compulsive shopper or maybe alcohol is the problem.
Professional Help
Sometimes, as in the case of drug and alcohol addictions, the best course of action is to seek professional help. As much as you love them, these are serious problems that you could do more harm than good by trying to deal with the matter yourself. With people like those who run sober living housing ready and willing to assist, you should not cause yourself stress because you do not know what to do next.
The same applies to severe mental health problems. You should seek the help of professionals by talking to your physician who will be able to put you and your family member in touch in the right people.
Could A Hobby Help?
When the problem is less serious, sometimes taking their mind away from it and occupying it with something else will work. For instance, if they are becoming addicted to gambling or shopping, a hobby they enjoy could take them away from this. It is even better if it is something you can do with them, as then they are more likely to get involved. If you know, just as an example, that they loved playing basketball when they were younger, find a local team to train with and have fun. The fun element is important or they will not want to continue with their new hobby.
Boost Esteem
Often, people that are struggling with addictions or depression have a very low self-esteem. This is because they are not happy about the way they are behaving, and know it could adversely affect the rest of the family.
Make a point of engaging them in conversation as often as possible, and always be positive about them. They may have made mistakes in the past as most people do. Encourage them to put errors behind them and focus on what a good future they have to look forward to. Support them as much as you can, including attending meetings with them if they decide to seek help.
Avoid Triggers
If someone in your family is struggling and reaches out to you, be ready at help at a moments notice. Do things together, but avoid going to a bar of their problem is alcohol, or going to the mall is they are compulsive shoppers or have financial problems. Exercise, such as a walk together is always good, as this will release endorphins into the brain and help to make them feel better.
Watch For Signs Of Bigger Problems
If someone has got into the downward spiral of an addiction or depression, lifting them out of it can be very difficult. If their character changes, become more aggressive and lose interest in things they always enjoyed, these are signs that things are getting worse for them, and you should not attempt to deal with matters yourself any longer.
We all hate to see loved ones suffering and will do whatever we can to help, but sometimes that is not enough and that is when the experts should be consulted.
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