Addiction is a difficult subject—both for the person struggling and for those who love them. If someone close to you is battling addiction, you may feel helpless, frustrated, or even afraid to bring up the topic. But the truth is, open and honest conversations can be the first step toward recovery.
So, how do you approach such a delicate topic? How do you express concern without pushing them away? At Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s practice, located on the premises of The Way Recovery Centre in Pretoria, we work with families navigating this challenging journey. Here’s how you can start the conversation with compassion, confidence, and care.
Understand Addiction Before You Talk
Before you sit down for a conversation, take a moment to educate yourself about addiction. Addiction isn’t a choice or a moral failing—it’s a disease that affects the brain and behaviour.
Many people struggling with substance abuse or gambling addiction may feel shame, denial, or fear about their condition. Approaching the conversation with knowledge and empathy will help you communicate in a way that encourages—not alienates—them.
Common Misconceptions About Addiction
Many people misunderstand addiction, and these misconceptions can make conversations more difficult. Here are a few myths you should be aware of:
Myth: Addiction is a lack of willpower. Reality: Addiction is a complex disease that affects brain function and behaviour, making it difficult for individuals to stop without help.
Myth: If they really loved me, they’d stop. Reality: Addiction isn’t about love or relationships; it’s about chemical changes in the brain that create compulsive behaviour.
Myth: They need to hit rock bottom before seeking help. Reality: The sooner someone seeks help, the better their chances of recovery. Waiting for rock bottom can be dangerous.
Choose the Right Time and Place
Timing is everything. Confronting a loved one when they are intoxicated, defensive, or stressed may lead to an argument rather than a productive conversation. Choose a time when they are sober and relatively calm.
Pick a private, comfortable space where you won’t be interrupted.
Ensure you have enough time to talk without feeling rushed.
Keep your emotions in check—approach the discussion with love and patience, not frustration.
Focus on Concern, Not Blame
No one wants to feel attacked. Avoid accusations or language that places blame. Instead, focus on expressing your concern in a way that shows you care.
Use “I” statements: Instead of saying, “You have a problem,” say, “I’ve noticed changes in your behaviour, and I’m really worried about you.”
Be specific: Mention particular behaviours you’ve observed, like missing work, withdrawing from family, or financial struggles.
Avoid labels: Words like “addict” or “alcoholic” can feel stigmatizing. Instead, speak about their behaviour and its impact.
Listen More Than You Speak
This isn’t just about getting your point across—it’s about understanding how your loved one feels. Give them space to talk. They may be defensive at first but don’t interrupt or try to “fix” them. Just listen.
Ask open-ended questions like, “How are you feeling about everything?”
Show empathy and validate their emotions: “That must be really hard for you.”
Avoid judgment—your goal is to support, not criticize.
Offer Help, But Set Boundaries
You want to help, but you can’t do the work for them. Offer support, but make it clear that their recovery is ultimately their responsibility.
Let them know professional help is available. Dr. Jolandi Meyer and The Way Recovery Centre specialize in addiction treatment and can guide them toward recovery.
Offer to help them research treatment options or attend an appointment with them.
Set boundaries—don’t enable destructive behaviour by giving them money or making excuses for their actions.
How to Avoid Enabling Behavior
Don’t cover up their mistakes – If they miss work due to addiction, don’t make excuses for them.
Avoid financial support – Giving money might unintentionally fund their addiction.
Encourage self-responsibility – Let them face the consequences of their actions, but offer support when they decide to seek help.
Expect Resistance (But Don’t Give Up)
Denial is common. Your loved one may downplay the problem, make excuses, or even get angry. This doesn’t mean the conversation was a failure—it’s just part of the process.
Stay patient and let them know you’re there for them whenever they’re ready to seek help. Sometimes, just planting the seed of change is enough to set them on the right path.
Encourage Professional Help
Addiction is complex, and overcoming it often requires professional intervention. Encourage your loved one to seek treatment from an expert like Dr. Jolandi Meyer, who works closely with The Way Recovery Centre’s team to provide comprehensive care.
Explain that professional treatment can offer tools and support that family alone cannot.
Mention that The Way Recovery Centre provides a structured and compassionate approach to recovery.
Offer to accompany them to an appointment or help them make the call.
What If They Refuse Help?
It’s heartbreaking when someone refuses the help they need. If this happens, remember:
You can’t force them into recovery—they have to make that choice for themselves.
Set firm boundaries—don’t allow their addiction to control your life.
Seek support for yourself—talk to a counsellor, join a support group, or reach out to Dr. Meyer’s practice for guidance.
Supporting Your Own Well-being
Helping a loved one through addiction can be emotionally exhausting. Take care of yourself by:
Seeking therapy or joining a support group.
Practising self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and socializing.
Understanding that their addiction is not your fault.
Additional Support: Knowing When to Intervene
There may come a time when your loved one’s addiction reaches a dangerous level. If their health, safety, or the safety of others is at risk, an intervention may be necessary. Consulting a professional interventionist or seeking immediate help from Dr. Jolandi Meyer and The Way Recovery Centre could be lifesaving.
For information on our 28-day in-patient programme with professional qualified medical detox from addiction and a platform of different approaches to addicts suffering from long-term gambling, alcohol and/or drug addiction, get in touch with Dr. Jolandi Meyer at The Way Recovery – Gambling, Drug & Alcohol Abuse Treatment Facility in Pretoria. A six-week outpatient programme with individual counselling, group therapy, and family support is also available from The Way Recovery.
The Way Recovery Halfway House in Pretoria offers a reintegration, aftercare programme to aid the addict who has finished a detox programme in adjusting to society for the recovering addict who still struggles.
Why Choose Dr. Jolandi Meyer and The Way Recovery Centre
Choosing the right support system is crucial for recovery. Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s practice is uniquely positioned within The Way Recovery Centre, offering a seamless integration of medical and therapeutic care. Here’s why this combination makes a difference:
Holistic Approach – Dr. Meyer collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of addiction.
Personalized Treatment Plans – Each patient receives tailored care that considers their specific needs and challenges.
Expert Guidance – With years of experience in addiction treatment, Dr. Meyer provides compassionate and professional care that fosters lasting recovery.
Comprehensive Support – The Way Recovery Centre offers residential and outpatient programs, support groups, and counseling services to help individuals at every stage of recovery.
Family Involvement – Recognizing the impact of addiction on loved ones, the center includes family therapy and educational resources to strengthen relationships and support networks.
By choosing Dr. Jolandi Meyer and The Way Recovery Centre, individuals and their families can feel confident they are in the hands of professionals who genuinely care about long-term recovery.
Talking to a loved one about addiction isn’t easy, but it’s an essential step toward healing. Lead with love, stay patient, and know that help is available. Dr. Jolandi Meyer and The Way Recovery Centre are here to support individuals and families facing addiction. If you need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re in this together.
Common Ailments Treated by Dr. Jolandi Meyer
Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s expertise and comprehensive treatment options make her an exceptional General Practitioner for addressing all ailments. She provides personalised care, empowering patients to achieve optimal health. Her compassionate approach ensures patients receive the highest quality treatment. Her practice is located in Garsfontein, Pretoria on the same premises as The Way Recovery Centre.
With her support and guidance, patients can embark on a journey towards improved well-being and a healthier, happier life.