Addiction, for some reason, is one of the most harshly judged diseases in the world. Unlike other diseases where people sympathize, many addicts are judged and assumed as irresponsible and bad decision-makers. But most people couldn't be further from the truth. Addiction is a disease like any other, probably even more severe because of misunderstanding. The consequences of addiction are real and classified as a chronic ailment.
The fact that addiction keeps relapsing makes it more chronic, and the fact that patients lose their choice on the matter should make it more sympathetic. As a progressive brain disease, it is easy to see why individuals lose their choice to a happy and decent life, especially when left untreated.
The addictive disorder depends on several factors, some of which are beyond anyone's control. Some of these factors include genetics, undiagnosed and statement mental disorders, and environmental factors, just to mention a few.
Usually, none of the addicts decides to be hooked on the drink as a choice they make. This is the same desire that pushes many to seek help when they know their days are numbered. However, many who succeed in this journey always celebrate each step because it takes a lot of hard work to overcome addiction.
It is therefore not easy for addicts to open up about their struggles. The fact that many people are out to judge and sometimes condemn makes it difficult for them to get the confidence to open up about their predicament. Many suffer in silence and the bold ones get help but keep the progress to themselves. This makes it all the more difficult to cope when in recovery because those around them are not aware of their battles and as such may keep brining triggers and tempting offers that can easily make the addict relapse unless they have a strong will to overcome.
Having the Talk
Seeing the struggles that these addicts go through, it is important to be mindful of how you converse with people who may be in recovery. While some people have no problem discussing their journey in detail, others will shy off and prefer to keep silent. This can be difficult because it hinders the progress of a recovering addict, especially in social gatherings where they serve drinks and are unable to decline.
As a good friend, it is important that you take the supportive role and understand when your friend declines the offer of a drink for whatever reason. Appreciate that they are on a journey and the best you can do is support their desire to improve. Avoid prying and asking unnecessary questions.
Avoid leading questions that may tempt them to reconsider turning down a drink. Do not imply that they are missing out just because they have made a different decision than yours. Instead, please encourage them to keep working to improve their sobriety journey. If you do not know what to say, it is best to keep quiet and respect your friends' decisions instead of making demeaning remarks.