3. Supporting your Family Member’s Recovery

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Challenges for people with substance use problems


People have to want to change. They may not want to get help because they assume their substance use will have to stop completely, and they may not be ready to stop using. The reality is that most people are unsure about change, and this ambivalence is normal. Even though there may be negative consequences from using, people may be unable to change because the effects of using certain substances are so powerful. When the negative consequences outweigh the reasons for using, people will usually be more likely to make a change.

Empowering Families Affected by Substance Use © , CAMH.