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How do I tell my parents that I struggle with an addiction?

Profile: TaylorAshlay
TaylorAshlay on Dec 2, 2014
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Tell your parents that you need to tell them something really important but don't throw it on them let them know that its a struggle and something that you may be looking for support in. If you throw it on them they might get the wrong idea and maybe take it the wrong way. When you let them know calmly they will fully understand and listen to what your saying.
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Profile: Siouxsie
Siouxsie on Dec 4, 2014
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For me, personally, I didn't tell them until I was 2 years into recovery. They were not safe for me to tell, and so I waited until *I* felt healthy enough to handle any response they had. My recovery is about me, and it's important that I keep only the safest people in my recovery support system.
Profile: colourfulSong30
colourfulSong30 on Oct 24, 2016
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Hi there. First of all I'd like to commend you for tackling the issue of addiction. No-one sets out to be an addict, and it's largely misunderstood and vilified. Talking it out with your parents is a great place to start, since they know you better than anyone. My advice would be to prepare them by letting them know you have something important you want to discuss with them, and schedule a time when the three of you can be alone over a cup of tea/coffee. This way, they'll be mentally prepared to hear important news from you. I would also advise to tell them the story from the beginning, with as much detail as you'd like to include. Make sure they're aware that addictions mask underlying issues, and are very misunderstood. I would also advise letting them know about what was going on for you when the addiction started. Ease them gently into the narrative - even write it down on a piece of paper if you feel nervous or are afraid you might leave something out. That's what I would do in your shoes anyway. And fair play to you - addiction is an awful illness. By tackling it head on you're making the steps to get better. I wish you the very best of luck, not only with your parents, but with your journey to recovery.
Profile: MissKitty73
MissKitty73 on Feb 21, 2017
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It can be daunting sometimes to tell your parents such a serious thing. From personal experience, I know that the best way to do this is to come from a humble standpoint. Admit to yourself first that you have a hurdle to overcome. When you're ready, tell your parents first why you're having this conversation, whatever it may be for you. For me, it was because I needed them most and relied on their support. Tell them honestly what you're experiencing, and why you need them. They will understand, and hopefully be your greatest weapon on conquering your hurdle.
Profile: Anonymous
Anonymous on Oct 19, 2015
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I Know this is a bit late but if you haven't told them yet, or if this is another person reading this who's having the same problem , you might consider writing a letter, their initial reaction is what's most scary about it, so a letter would give them time to know how to handle the situation right, make sure you're not in the house when they're reading it for the first time, I Hope everything goes well for you.
Profile: RachxTheLight
RachxTheLight on Nov 30, 2014
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A good way to start is to admit to your parents that you do have something important to talk about with them, that you are struggling with something, whether it be drugs, alcohol, whatever. It may not be the easiest thing to admit to your parents, but once you do, you will feel much better about getting the help for the addiction. Your parents are there to help you, not to criticize your lifestyle.
Profile: AustenE
AustenE on Oct 20, 2015
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First off, I understand how hard it is battling an addiction. Be honest with them about what is going on. Your parents love you, and only want the best for you. It's going to mean a lot to them that you're honest and straightforward about what you're struggling with. They want to help you, so sit both of them down and talk. :)
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I've been through this myself and it seems so impossible to do but I found that just being honest about my addiction was the best way to approach it. I would set a time to talk to your parents and just go for it. you'll be surprised at how much of a relief it is to let it out. Parents can be hard at times but they love us and can help us more than we think. Whem dealing eith addiction, having a strong support system is very very important in recovery. Good luck and best wishes to you. talking to your parents takes courage. you are strong in doing so.
Profile: Spiderman93
Spiderman93 on Dec 1, 2014
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Just be open and honest with them. They will be worried more than likely, but they will also want to ensure you get the help you deserve. It may seem hard, but its better to tell them sooner than later!
Profile: KurtJP223
KurtJP223 on Jan 3, 2015
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Honesty is key, you need to be straight up and tell them what it is that you're addicted to, and why it is that you feel as though you're using this drug.
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