Supporting Your Loved One - SMA Healthcare

We understand that loving someone struggling with substance use can be an emotional journey. This gentle assessment is designed to help you find the support that's right for both of you. Remember, there's always hope and a way forward—and you don't have to walk this path alone.

Your Loved One's Journey

How would you describe your loved one's relationship with substances right now?

They use occasionally, and it doesn't seem to interfere with their day-to-day life

They use regularly, and you've noticed some changes in their responsibilities or relationships

They use frequently, and there have been noticeable consequences in their life

They use daily or almost daily, and their life has been significantly disrupted

Has your loved one tried to cut back or stop?

They haven't mentioned wanting to change their use

They've talked about wanting to change but haven't taken steps yet

They've tried to cut back with some struggles along the way

They've made several attempts to stop but haven't been able to maintain it

Have you noticed any health changes in your loved one?

No health concerns that I'm aware of

Some minor health issues that might be connected to their substance use

Noticeable health problems that seem related to substances

Serious health consequences or frightening incidents like overdoses

How are they managing their daily responsibilities?

They're keeping up with work, school, or home responsibilities

They sometimes miss obligations or aren't performing as well as before

They frequently struggle to meet responsibilities

They've lost jobs, failed courses, or can't keep up with important responsibilities

Your Shared Connection

How has your relationship been affected?

We're still connecting well most of the time

There's some tension or distance between us now

Our relationship has been significantly strained

We've experienced serious breakdown in our relationship or periods without contact

Have you found yourself explaining away or covering up situations for your loved one?

No, I haven't needed to do this

I've done this a few times

I find myself doing this fairly often

This has become a regular pattern in my life

How would you describe your approach to their substance use?

I've been able to maintain healthy boundaries while showing I care

I try to keep boundaries but sometimes get more involved than I intend to

I often find myself trying to control their use or behavior

Much of my life now revolves around managing their substance use and its effects

How has your own wellbeing been affected through all of this?

I'm generally managing well and taking care of myself

I experience some stress or worry, but still maintain my own life

I've been experiencing significant anxiety, sadness, or health issues

My physical health, emotional wellbeing, or daily functioning has been seriously impacted

Finding Your Support

Have you reached out for support for yourself during this time?

Yes, I'm connected with support groups or counseling

I've reached out occasionally but not consistently

I've thought about getting support but haven't taken that step yet

I haven't considered seeking support for myself

How comfortable do you feel about understanding substance use and ways to help?

I feel knowledgeable and prepared to offer effective support

I understand the basics but still have questions

I feel uncertain about how I can best help

I often feel confused or overwhelmed about what to do