When you understand the depth of someone’s wounds, then you can see him from a different perspective
In the past, addicts have been portrayed negatively. Some people see addicts as selfish people who do not care about the needs of those they hurt; other people see addicts as moral inferiors who choose low ethical path; still others view addicts as helplessly incurable, beyond the ability to help. However, as addiction science has grown, recovery specialists have learned that most addicts have wounds that need emotional and sometimes physical healing. The pain of past mistakes, trauma or abuse often create deep emotional wounds that many addicts try to numb with drugs rather than addressing through treatment. Knowing this information can help people who love, work with or treat addicts be more understanding.
If you understand that addicts are wounded people, then you may experience the following benefits:
Knowing that a friend or loved one is using drugs to avoid dealing with deep wounds may help you move beyond judgment to mercy. You will recognize the humanity that you both share, as well as the fact that all people—sober and addicts alike—share a universal need for love and acceptance. With the right understanding, you can help drug users get and stay clean.
If you or a loved one is trying to cover up deep wounds with drug abuse, we can help you quit. Call our toll-free, 24 hour helpline anytime to talk with one of our admissions coordinators about addiction. Together, you and the coordinator can determine the best type of treatment for your unique needs. Our staff can also help you find a treatment center that focuses on your particular hurt, whether it is abuse or grief. Healing starts when you make that call, so start on that path today.