502-586-4554When someone you love struggles with alcoholism, it can leave you feeling powerless, scared, and unsure of what to do. You may ask yourself: “Am I helping or enabling? How do I even start the conversation?”
At Louisville Addiction Center, we understand the unique challenges families face when addiction affects a loved one. This guide will help you support them with compassion while also protecting your own well-being.
Alcoholism Is a Disease, Not a Choice
Alcoholism—or Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)—is a chronic brain disease. It’s not a matter of willpower or moral failure. Addiction changes brain chemistry, making it extremely difficult for someone to stop drinking without professional help.
This perspective can help you approach your loved one with understanding rather than judgment.
Recognizing the Signs of Alcohol Addiction
It’s not always easy to tell when someone’s drinking has become a problem. Here are some warning signs to watch for:
- Drinking alone or hiding alcohol use
- Missing work, school, or family commitments
- Legal or financial problems tied to drinking
- Health issues like blackouts, frequent hangovers, or injuries
- Mood swings, irritability, or defensiveness about alcohol use
If these sound familiar, it may be time to take action.
5 Steps to Support an Alcoholic Family Member
1️⃣ Approach With Compassion
Choose a private, calm time to talk. Avoid blame or criticism and use “I” statements:
“I’m concerned about how much you’ve been drinking and how it’s affecting your health.”
The goal isn’t to force them into treatment but to express your concern and keep the door open for future conversations.
2️⃣ Set Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries are critical for your loved one’s recovery and your own emotional health. Examples include:
✅ Not giving money that might support their drinking
✅ Refusing to lie or make excuses for them
✅ Saying “no” to requests that enable their addiction
Boundaries aren’t about punishing your loved one—they create space for accountability and change.
3️⃣ Avoid Enabling Behaviors
Enabling means unintentionally supporting their addiction by trying to “help” in ways that protect them from consequences. Common enabling behaviors include:
🚫 Making excuses for missed work or appointments
🚫 Covering up financial problems caused by drinking
🚫 Ignoring the issue to avoid conflict
Replace enabling with supportive, yet firm actions that encourage professional help.
4️⃣ Encourage Professional Treatment
Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and even life-threatening without medical supervision. At Louisville Addiction Center, we provide:
🌿 Medical detox programs for safe withdrawal management
🌿 Personalized treatment plans to address underlying issues
🌿 Family therapy programs to help heal relationships and build healthier dynamics
Encourage your loved one to consider professional treatment and offer to support them through the process.
5️⃣ Take Care of Yourself
Supporting someone with AUD is emotionally exhausting. Prioritize your own health by:
💛 Joining support groups like Al-Anon
💛 Seeing a therapist for emotional support
💛 Practicing self-care activities that help you recharge
You can’t help them effectively if you’re burned out.
 | Medically Reviewed By: Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Addictionologist |
 | Clinically Reviewed By: Board Certified Clinical Social Worker |
Did you know that your insurance plan may cover medical detox?
Contact Us
Addiction and co-occurring disorders don’t have to control your life. Louisville Addiction Center is waiting with open arms to give you the tools necessary for lasting change. Reach out to us today to learn more.
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Supporting Families Through Recovery
We understand addiction affects the whole family. Our comprehensive family program helps rebuild trust and restore relationships.
Weekly Family Therapy Sessions
Educational Workshops
Support Groups
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