Usually an alcoholic is convinced that he is “in control” and does not consider his condition a problem. How to persuade such a person to seek medical help?
aif.ru told about this psychotherapist, psychiatrist-narcologist Alexander Polikarpov.
Alcoholism becomes a test not only for the person himself, but also for his family and friends. A person ceases to control his actions and it becomes more and more difficult to communicate with him. The problem lies in the lack of a critical attitude towards oneself – and the patient does not see himself from the outside and does not consider himself dependent. He is convinced that he can quit at any moment, but simply “does not want” to stop drinking, because it helps him to relax, cope with stress and creates an illusion of satisfaction.
No need to make scandals and quarrels. In intoxication, a person is not able to evaluate his actions and control himself, so this can lead to aggression. A hangover is also not the right time for exhortations and serious conversations. Perhaps the patient will feel guilty, but now he feels too bad.
If you want to motivate a person and help them stop drinking, talk to them when they are sober and in a good mood. Do not blame him, but talk about your concerns, try to gently explain the consequences of binges and excessive drinking. Do not evaluate negatively the patient himself, speak specifically about the disease. Let him know how much the family needs him and that you believe in him. If this does not help or you find it difficult to conduct such a conversation yourself, you can call a psychiatrist or psychologist to conduct a motivational conversation.
The conversation can take place with the participation of family members, friends. The doctor will help to gently, correctly and respectfully recall the negative situations associated with addiction, describe the changes that have occurred with the person. This will help him see his behavior from the outside. You need to be caring and willing to help. A peaceful tone of conversation can help a person decide on a course of special therapy.
However, there are a number of taboos. You can not blame the patient that his behavior is harmful to your health – this is blackmail.
Threats are just as ineffective – you can’t be scared that you will tell friends, bosses, other relatives about his behavior.
Forced treatment, in which an ultimatum is given to the patient, domestic inconveniences are created, they are frightened by divorce, a ban on communication with children, etc., will not give a result. In addition, if the patient realizes that you are not implementing these threats, he will stop paying attention to them.
Source: aif.ru
