At a Glance
- Metrocare partners with News Of Fort Worth to give families a guide for supporting loved ones with substance abuse.
- The guide, informed by SAMHSA and Mayo Clinic, lists what to do and what not to do.
- Metrocare offers trauma-informed programs such as MAT, Ambulatory Detox, and Intensive Outpatient services regardless of payment ability.
Why it matters: Knowing how to support a relative can transform recovery and protect family well-being.
Metrocare, the largest mental health provider in North Texas with 55 years of service, has teamed with local media to offer families a practical plan for helping loved ones struggling with substance abuse. The guide, based on recommendations from SAMHSA and Mayo Clinic, outlines essential steps and pitfalls to avoid. Families can use these tools to start conversations and protect their own health while supporting recovery.
Supporting a Loved One: What to Do
The guide emphasizes listening, encouraging professional help, patience, education, and self-care.
- Listen Without Judgment – Create a safe space for open dialogue and avoid interrupting or unsolicited advice.
- Encourage Professional Help – Substance use disorders are medical conditions; Metrocare offers trauma-informed, person-centered outpatient programs, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Ambulatory Detox, and Intensive Outpatient services, regardless of ability to pay.
- Be Patient and Consistent – Recovery is not linear; setbacks will occur, but continued support reinforces hope and resilience.
- Educate Yourself – Understanding addiction reduces stigma and improves effective support; resources from SAMHSA and Metrocare provide valuable insights.
- Take Care of Yourself – Supporting someone can be draining; prioritize your own mental and emotional health and consider support groups or counseling.
What Not to Do
Avoid actions that can hinder recovery and strain relationships.
- Don’t Enable – Shielding a loved one from consequences or providing financial support that fuels addiction is harmful.
- Don’t Shame or Blame – Addiction is not a moral failing; shaming deepens guilt and isolation.
- Don’t Expect Immediate Change – Unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration and harm the relationship.
- Don’t Ignore Your Boundaries – Setting limits protects your well-being and helps the loved one recognize seriousness.
- Don’t Go at It Alone – Many Dallas organizations, including Metrocare, offer compassionate services for individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.
Resources and Contact Information
Metrocare provides free or low-cost services and support groups for families.
- Main Line: (214) 743-1200
- Crisis Hotline (24/7): (214) 743-1215
- Start Your Journey: Click here to get started.
- Mayo Clinic – Intervention: Help a loved one overcome addiction (reference guide)
Key Takeaways
- Listening and professional help are essential for recovery.
- Avoid enabling, shaming, and unrealistic expectations.
- Metrocare offers trauma-informed services and support for families.
Families can turn to Metrocare and local partners for help and guidance in navigating substance abuse recovery.
