This is a time to practice being judgment-free and accepting of each other. Many moms and dads feel ostracized in what is oftentimes a lifelong battle, and saying something kind can make a huge difference.ĪVOID THIS: “Are you off your meds again?” Or “Cheer up! The sun’s out!” Or “I don’t understand why you can’t just snap out of it.” Let’s pause and remember that a mental health diagnosis is a medical struggle, not just a little bit of sadness or eccentric behavior.
TRY THIS: “You are very important to me and nothing will ever change that.” Or “You’re a wonderful person and I wish I could take away this pain from your heart.” Or simply, “Can I give you a hug?” These quotes also work for a parent of someone struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, or another mental health challenge. Your friend is suffering from mental health issues. Take them to lunch afterward or send them home with a care package of comforting things: a cozy throw, a super huggable stuffed animal, some chamomile tea. If they’d like, wait in the lobby as an extra force of support. Or offer to drive them to the rehab facility to see their child. SHOW YOU CARE: Visit your friend whenever possible or appropriate.
That’s a small glimpse of the pain of addiction.
Then, consider this battle a matter of life and death. One way to look at it: Think about something you love that would be really hard to give up. That’s what I did when I gave up chocolate.” It’s very rare that comparisons from your personal experience will help, especially with something as serious as addiction. “Have you tried quitting cold turkey?” or “Just put your mind to it.
Unless you’re sitting in a counselor’s office and you’re the counselor, kindly keep your opinions to yourself. So keeping your conversations confidential will show your friend you respect their privacy and will give them reassurance to express their feelings freely.ĪVOID THIS: Offering specific advice. We’re going to fight this together.” Maybe your friend’s child is the one suffering or being treated at a rehabilitation center: You might say, “I care about you and am here to listen if you need to talk.” One more thing-addiction is a sensitive topic. TRY THIS: “I want you to know I’m in this with you. Inspired? Create and share by tagging you love is struggling with addiction.
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