My family member is an addict and I don't get why they just can't stop now.

Addiction is a serious problem, therefore it is not so easy to just stop whenever. But as their family member, you must support them through the process of trying to quit and make sure they stay on the right path

When you are addicted to something, your body basically tells itself you are losing a vital part of yourself and attacks your system until you get that particular drug or whatever else they are addicted to. If you have ever seen someone in recovery, they go through a detox, many experience endless amounts of pain, others feel like they're going crazy, etc. There are so many different reasons why it is so difficult for an addict to stop being addicted. The thing is, they need the support of others and unless they truly want to stop, they won't be able to.

Addiction is not based on willpower. Addiction is a medical condition and can be best treated by medical professionals. Similarly, depending on the kind of addiction they are struggling with, it may not be physically possible or medically recommended for them to stop immediately. The person needs a supportive group of people who will encourage them to keep their mind on the prize of recovery, who will encourage them to seek medical support, and who will let them know that they are loved. The number one reason addicts struggle with recovery is not knowing about or not pursuing healthier coping mechanisms, to help them cope with negative emotions. The pressure to stop now and the disappointment that follows when they inevitably and physically cannot stop now causes a circular reaction that may lead them using again, which is not an uncommon pattern in addiction recovery. Encouraging the person you know to seek support, and letting them know that though they are hurting you and disappointing you, you are still here for them and want the very best for them, can help them seek professional aid or continue on a supportive path towards recovery.

He/She just can't stop on his/her own just like that, it requires the whole family members to help get through those difficult times.

Is there any physical abuse because of it? Explain to them the feelings you have when they're doing this. Give them an addict hotline number. Let them know they're not alone

My father is an alcoholic and is still one. He has gone to rehab multiple times but we just can’t change him. It’s hard for someone to just stop and even harder for the people around them. It can get tough at some points, but just remember to stick with them. I still love my father but I can’t even bear to look at him the same anymore. Love them and let them know that you care for them and want them to be safe.

Remember you are not responsible neither are you doing anything wrong, they just put the thought in their head and it will be difficult to change someone’s mind, especially where they have made a decision to risk their lives and whether they realise it or not, yours too. The wise thing to do is and I am not giving advice is to live a better life. Respect their choice and think about what it means to them. In other words, what can help you get out of unpleasant situations that may arise while you are with this person, how to get them out of your way if they become toxic. Don’t be afraid to seek the help of another family member or a trusted adult. You are going to always have to see someone and get the negativity pit of your system. It’s not your fault, but it’s good to address a problem when it is there

This is a common question. but the truth is, it is not that easy to quit. Addiction is a chronic brain disease, not a moral flaw or a lack of willpower. Addiction is not just a matter of lack of willpower. Addiction changes the brain and hijacks the reward system, which affects the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine. That’s how the brain becomes addicted to drugs. This artificially induced dopamine release increases the risk of addiction. Substance abuse speeds the flow of dopamine and overloads the brain until it becomes less able to produce dopamine on its own.