Family visits are one of the highlights of a patient’s stray in a rehab center. This is a chance for them to show off their progress and to be reconnected with the people they love. Staying in isolation for recovery can get lonely so this is an exciting event. This allows them to be reminded that they have an entire support network cheering them on.

You yourself might be looking forward to visiting them to check up on their progress. However, this affair isn’t always the easiest. During the early stages of treatment, your relationship with them may not be fully mended yet. There could be feelings of resentment and guilt which can take a toll on both parties.

Family visits are also incredibly emotional. The reunion may result in tears and heartaches but take comfort in the fact that your loved one made the right choice by getting admitted into rehab. The time apart is a small sacrifice in the face of lifelong recovery.

Don’ts During Family Visits

These will serve as a guideline on the things you should avoid doing so that the experience becomes smoother and more comfortable for all the parties involved.

1. Don’t Be Negative

It is very important to avoid bringing any type of negativity around the patient. This can make them feel like their progress is undervalued and irrelevant. They are already going through so much as is. Their time indoors, which includes detoxing and constantly resisting the urge to break sobriety, is already hard.

They will need all the positivity they could get so that they could power through. They should only meet the loved ones that make them feel happy and excited rather than anxious and scared.

2. Avoid Money Talks

It is no secret that rehab centers can be costly. Inpatient rehab means that you also pay for the rent so the amount is bound to rack up. Talking about money won’t benefit the patient in any way. They will just feel guilty about the expenses they have accrued. This can cause stress which may cause them to relapse.

3. Don’t Talk About The Future

It is important to keep the patient in the present moment. They might not be ready for future plans so do not mention those to them. Do not mention them going back to school or to an old job. Do not discuss where they might possibly live after the treatment.

All of these will inflict a huge amount of pressure on the patient.

4. Don’t Comment On Their Weight

Addictions may result in serious weight changes. Some patients may lose weight as they become unhealthy and neglect their meals. Others may gain weight as they stress eat or experience some of the side effects while being on medication.

No matter how they look, do not comment on their weight. Their physical appearance will just become another problem or negativity that they will obsess about. Always stick to the positive comments, such as pointing out that they look healthier or stronger.

5. Avoid Pressure

It can be tempting to drop subtle hints on your loved ones to pressure them to get better soon. However, this can easily backfire in the form of relapse due to stress. Let them take their time and make it a point to celebrate all of their wins so far.

They are already aware of the amount of damage they have inflicted on all aspects. Just be patient and remember that healing takes time. They do not need the additional layer of pressure to get better.

Do’s During Family Visits

1. Be punctual

Family visits are usually set at fixed hours so if you value your time with your loved one, then you should be on time. Additionally, it sets a good example for the patients. They are highly encouraged to practice routines and routines can only be executed if one strictly follows a schedule.

2. Acknowledge and applaud their progress

They will need positive energy to cheer them on during this rough journey. Make sure to tell them how much you appreciate all the hard work and good decisions that they have made so far. Expressing these things will show your support which will encourage them to stay sober and work harder to gain independence from addictive substances.

3. Discuss news events and the weather

Light conversations are encouraged and you can keep them up by talking about the weather and current events. They will also appreciate these updates since they are normally cut off from the outside world.

4. Bring something to share

Bring a simple gift that they will appreciate. This can be their favorite snack or toy. It is an excellent way to start a conversation and they will surely appreciate a gift from the outside world.