For someone in rehab, family visitations are important. Different recovery facilities have different policies. Some may only allow visits on designated days, while some may only allow immediate family members on weekends. Others may not encourage visits for the first few weeks. While an initial break in contact is crucial so your loved one can focus on recovery, it is also essential to their recovery that you do visit. Preparing For Your Visit There are some things for you to keep in mind before you make that visit, and the most important of them is that your loved one will probably be suffering from extreme mood swings. You could see them going from excitement to worry to anger and resentment. You should know that this is part of the recovery process, and that it’s not directed towards you. Someone who has struggled with addiction for months or years, will be numb to ordinary, every day feelings. Now that they are in rehab and sober, they have to face all their emotions, making it difficult to cope. You can help keep the visit on an even emotional keel by steering clear of topics that might upset your loved one. Some topics to avoid include:
Outside drama
Your friend or family member in rehab has enough stress without having to deal with other people’s drama. Leave that at the door.
Don’t ask too many questions
It’s natural to be curious about all the details of the rehab center and recovery process, but a barrage of questions is not going to help. Go slow, let them set the pace and talk about what they want.
Stay away from talking about their weight
Chances are, the person you’re visiting looks much healthier now and has probably gained some weight. Don’t mention it. You don’t know any of the underlying issues that led to the addiction in the first place. Weight is usually a sensitive topic for most people, don’t bring it up.
Money
Whether it’s how much recovery is costing them or how much you’re paying for them to be there, money is always a sensitive subject. Especially if you are helping your loved one out financially. Mentioning money will only shame them.
Don’t try to make everything funny
A lot of people turn to humor in awkward situations, however it’s a complicated emotion at best. What you think is funny might not be perceived the same way by the other person.
The future is another touchy subject
You may be feeling optimistic for your loved one, but they may be fearful about what happens when they leave rehab. It’s best to focus on the present.
Now that you know what not to do, here are some things that you should do:
- Be present in the visit. Be fully engaged with your loved one when you show up.
- Show up on time. This goes a long way towards showing them that you care and can be counted on. Plus, most rehab facilities will have specific visitation hours and will want to keep their clients routines consistent.
- Praise your loved one for their courage in entering rehab and their commitment towards their recovery.
- Make sure to meet the staff, to gain a better understanding of the recovery process. It is essential for you to meet the people who are working with and taking care of your loved one.
Oceanfront Recovery offers a fully licensed residential treatment program with an emphasis on highly trained staff, effective treatment paradigms, and a safe and comfortable environment. For more information call 877-279-1777
