A boundary can be defined as an invisible barrier that defines the limits of an individual’s level of contact. Boundaries set the bar in relationships and can be characterised in the form of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual limits.
These boundaries are important in addiction recovery as they aid in avoiding potential triggers and risky situations that may jeopardise your sobriety. They guide your interactions with others, ensuring that you surround yourself with individuals who support your recovery efforts and respect your personal limits.
The idea of boundaries in addiction treatment is not a recent development. It has its roots in the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), one of the first recovery support groups established in 1935. Among the twelve steps of AA, Step 12 accentuates the importance of carrying the message of recovery to others while maintaining personal boundaries.
As you progress in your recovery, you may realise the need to set boundaries in various aspects of your life. For example, you might need to establish boundaries with friends or family members who may not fully understand or respect your newfound commitment to sobriety. It’s essential to communicate these boundaries clearly and firmly to maintain a healthy and supportive environment.
Why We Set a Boundary?
Boundaries play a important role in dealing with addiction, acting as a psychological fence that sets guidelines for behaviour and responsibilities, creating healthy relationships. Weak or non-existent boundaries can lead to compromised personal space and freedom making individuals susceptible to manipulation and abuse. Establishing firm boundaries is a vital first step in encouraging a loved one struggling with addiction to seek help, emphasising that enabling behaviors, such as providing money for substances, will no longer continue.
Communication is Key
Communicating these boundaries to an addicted loved one is essential, involving the whole family in the decision-making process to ensure unity and clarity in the new household rules. This conversation, likely to be emotionally charged, should be approached with love and understanding, outlining the consequences of boundary violations and encouraging the individual to seek treatment. It’s important to choose a time when the person is not under the influence and to present the message as coming from a place of collective concern and love.
Healthy boundaries might include prohibiting drugs or alcohol in the house, refusing to bail the individual out of jail, banning substance-using friends from the home and insisting on respectful communication. Each boundary should come with clear consequences to enforce the seriousness of these rules, such as requiring the addicted individual to move out if they bring substances into the home. These boundaries are designed to reclaim control over the household and encourage the individual to take responsibility for their actions.
Setting and maintaining these boundaries is challenging yet essential for both the well-being of the individual with addiction and the family. It is a delicate balance of showing care without losing oneself in the process. While navigating a relationship with an addict can be frustrating, it’s important to remember that recovery can reveal the good in them making the effort to establish and uphold boundaries a worthwhile endeavor.
In addiction recovery terminology, you may often come across phrases like “setting healthy boundaries” or “establishing personal limits.” These references emphasise the importance of defining what you are comfortable with, both internally and externally to promote a successful and sustainable recovery.
Boundaries start small and focus on one boundary at a time. Focus on what you want as clearly as possible. Openly communicate your boundaries. Get help from qualified counsellors.What is Boundary? Addiction Summary | Set Yourl Personal Limits
Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and Thailand, WeDoRecover supports individuals globally, including those from the United Arab Emirates and Europe. Accepting both South African medical aid and international health insurance our organisation facilitates access to high-quality treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders, offering individualised care that addresses the physical, mental and social needs of patients.
Our team, led by Gareth Carter, offers empathetic and professional support, guiding you through every step of the treatment process. Whether you're in South Africa or abroad, our acceptance of various insurance plans makes quality care accessible, providing a platform for lasting recovery and a healthier future.
Inpatient Rehab
Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
Outpatient
If you're committed to your sobriety but cannot take a break from your daily duties for an inpatient program. Outpatient rehab treatment might suit you well if you are looking for a less restricted format for addiction treatment or simply need help with mental health.
Therapy
Therapy can be good step towards healing and self-discovery. If you need support without disrupting your routine, therapy offers a flexible solution for anyone wishing to enhance their mental well-being or work through personal issues in a supportive, confidential environment.
Mental Health
Are you having persistent feelings of being swamped, sad or have sudden surges of anger or intense emotional outbursts? These are warning signs of unresolved trauma mental health. A simple assesment by a mental health expert could provide valuable insights into your recovery.
Finding the right rehab close to you is simple with WeDoRecover. Our network includes the finest rehab centers, ensuring personalised, quality care for your recovery needs. Let Gareth Carter and our empathetic team help guide you to a center that feels right for you, offering expert care and support. Start your healing today by choosing a rehab that's not just close to you, but also that truly cares about your loved ones recovery.