Supporting a loved one who struggles with substance use can feel overwhelming and heartbreaking. Encouraging them to enter a treatment program may be one of the most significant steps toward recovery, but it often requires patience, empathy and proactive communication. At ENSO Recovery, with outpatient centers and recovery residences in Augusta and Sanford, Maine, we understand the challenges families face. Below are strategies and insights on how to guide your loved one toward professional help.
Communicate With Compassion and Clarity
Effective communication can open the door to meaningful dialogue about treatment options. Use clear language that expresses your concern without judgment or blame.
- Listen actively. Validate your loved one’s feelings and experiences. Let them know you hear their fears, doubts or resentments.
- Be honest but kind. Share specific observations about their substance use, focusing on behaviors rather than personal attacks.
- Stay calm. Avoid shouting, ultimatums or threats. Shaming often causes defensive reactions and distances your loved one from your message.
Recognize Common Barriers
It’s crucial to understand why someone may resist getting help. Common barriers include:
- Denial: Many people with substance use disorder believe they can quit on their own or insist their problem is not severe.
- Fear of stigma: Concern about how others might judge them can deter individuals from seeking help.
- Financial or logistical worries: They may fear they cannot afford treatment or juggle life responsibilities while in a program.
- Hopelessness: If they have tried to quit before, they might feel discouraged or believe they are beyond help.

Consider an Intervention Professional
In some cases, your loved one may continue to refuse treatment despite open, compassionate conversations. Intervention professionals can mediate these discussions and break through resistance.
- When to seek help: If your attempts to talk have led to heightened conflict or if your loved one’s substance use puts them in grave danger, an interventionist can offer structured support.
- What to expect: Intervention professionals help families plan the conversation, manage emotional responses and provide follow-up resources.
Approach Treatment Conversations With Empathy
Talking about treatment is often most effective when you maintain empathy and respect. Show that your concerns come from a place of love, not control.
- Choose a private, calm setting: Ensure that both you and your loved one feel safe.
- Use inclusive language: Phrases like “We want to help you find support” emphasize partnership instead of singling them out.
- Offer tangible solutions: Suggest potential programs or counseling options, including details on how to get started.
Timing and Preparation
Carefully plan these conversations to reduce the chances of escalation.
- Pick the right moment: Choose a time when your loved one is most likely to be clear-headed and relaxed.
- Gather resources in advance: Have brochures, contact information or a direct plan ready so you can address questions without delay.
- Know your bottom line: Understand your own boundaries in terms of financial or emotional support.
Address Enabling Behaviors and Set Boundaries
Family members sometimes enable a loved one’s substance use without realizing it. Shielding someone from the natural consequences of their actions can inadvertently protect the addiction.
- Identify enabling behaviors: Do you provide money, housing or excuses that support their continued use?
- Set healthy boundaries: Clearly communicate what you will and will not tolerate. Although this can be painful, it reinforces the reality of their situation.
ENSO Recovery’s Family Support Services
At ENSO Recovery, we believe healing involves the entire family. Our comprehensive programs at 90 Western Ave, Augusta, ME 04330, and 14 Winter St, Sanford, ME 04073, offer:
- Outpatient treatment: Designed to help individuals integrate recovery into everyday life while maintaining their responsibilities.
- Recovery residences: Safe, supportive environments where individuals can focus on sobriety and personal growth.
- Family education and counseling: We teach healthy communication skills, boundary-setting techniques and ways to support a loved one in recovery without enabling.
- Aftercare and continuous support: We help clients and their families create long-term strategies to manage triggers and prevent relapse.
Reach Out for Help
Convincing a loved one to enter treatment takes commitment and courage. You don’t have to face this challenge alone. ENSO Recovery’s team is here to support both your loved one and your family every step of the way.
If you need guidance or want more information about our programs, call ENSO Recovery at 207-245-1800. With our specialized services in Augusta and Sanford, we remain dedicated to helping individuals and families find hope, healing and a path forward.