Loneliness and How it Factors In With Addiction

It should come as a surprise to no one that feeling lonely is often a huge contributor to folks who suffer problems with addiction. Whether they are addicted to drugs or alcohol, it is a common problem for people who feel alone to also drink or abuse drugs. 

How can these people be shown the light and move away from their addiction and back into a sober life? This requires a bit of work from people in the addict’s life, showing them that they are cared for and that they have people in their life who want to see them do well. 

The Link Between Loneliness and Addiction

People suffering from the feeling of loneliness often resort to drinking or using illegal drugs for several different reasons. These substance abuses are most often used for one simple reason—a coping mechanism. Drinking and drugs can take some of the pain of being lonely or depressed away for a while, making them such an attractive option for those who are addicted to them. 

Unfortunately, these coping mechanisms are simply band-aids for the real problem. If you have a friend or family member who is lonely and using drugs or alcohol to cope with their problems, think about using some of the following tips to help the affected person in your life. 

Reach Out

Sometimes, the best thing you can do for someone in your life who is suffering from addiction problems is simply to reach out to them and let them know you are there for them. People who deal with addiction and loneliness need to know that there is someone on their side who cares about them, and often, all it takes is simply reaching out to them and letting them know you are available to talk should they ever need it. 

Suggest Help 

One of the best ways an addict dealing with loneliness and begin to work on bettering themselves is to detox and begin turning their life around with drug or alcohol rehab. At rehab, the addict will have access to trained medical professionals and therapists who will be there to talk to them 24/7. 

Remain Present

It is important to remain a factor in your friend’s life after they have finished rehab. Let them know you will be there to help them if they feel like they should ever need someone to talk about things with, and hopefully, your lonely friend or loved one will feel a little less lonely, and less likely to fall back into the trap of using drugs or alcohol.