concerned others.
what is it?.
"a concerned other is anyone affected by someone else’s drug/alcohol use. this could be a child/young person or an adult. choices will support anyone who is at risk of being affected. you can receive support even if your loved one isn’t in service"
support available.
Comprehensive assessment to tailor the support to your needs One to one support Drug awareness sessions/training Group work programmes. These include peer led groups so a concerned other can access advice and information from others in a similar situation. Information and support to help the person they are concerned. This involves education on treatment options and signposting to other services. Support to focus on the concerned other’s own wellbeing. Prenoxad (naloxone) training and a Prenoxad kit. Dry blood spot testing for blood borne viruses.
wellbeing.
It’s important to make time for your own wellbeing. Looking after yourself can be hard when you're also going through personal/ family difficulties. To support someone you love, you need to make sure you are taking care of yourself too. It’s important to have someone to talk to. Sharing your worries can lead to the right support for you and your family and friends. Try to get plenty of sleep Stay active Eat healthy foods
remember: 6 C's.
Choices can help children and young people who are concerned others by explaining the six C’s to them, encourage them to remember- -I didn’t cause it -I can’t cure it -I can’t control it -I can take care of myself -I can communicate my feelings -I can make healthy choices.
communication.
When talking to your loved one, keep communication open, show empathy and don't make any judgements. Let them know that you are worried about them. Reassure them that you will be there for them. You can do this by asking what they need from you. Let them know that there is help available. Make yourself available without being intrusive. Spend time with the person. Take an interest in their activities which promote their wellbeing and if possible, do these together, such as going for a walk. Encourage them to talk about what's going on in their life. Let the person know that they are loved.
more tips.
It is essential that there are firm and consistent boundaries in place. Try and involve the young person in negotiating rules. There needs to be consequences if boundaries are broken. Pick your fights. If the young person returns home under the influence. Wait till the next day to talk about it. This gives you time to calm down and also the young person wont be under the influence and will be able to contribute to the conversation and remember it. There needs to be a balance between self-responsibility and support to help them grow. Be open to learning- keep communication flowing, be open and ask questions.