NBC 5 and Telemundo 39 are proud to partner with Metrocare, the largest provider of mental health services in North Texas. With over 55 years of dedicated service, Metrocare specializes in mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and permanent supported housing services within Dallas County. Helping a loved one struggling with substance abuse is a mentally taxing event but offering your support can be a transforming force towards recovery. But substance abuse is a delicate subject, and you must remember to approach the situation with care, compassion, and trauma-informed strategies. Metrocare has drafted an plan of action, with guidance from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and Mayo Clinic, to start the conversation and warn of actions to avoid.
What to Do
1. Listen Without Judgment
Creating a safe space for open dialogue is essential. Let your loved one speak freely about their experiences and emotions. Avoid interrupting or offering unsolicited advice.*
2. Encourage Professional Help
Substance use disorders are medical conditions that benefit from professional treatment. Metrocare, the largest provider of mental health services in North Texas, offers trauma-informed, person-centered outpatient programs, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Ambulatory Detox, Intensive Outpatient, and counseling by licensed professionals—regardless of your ability to pay.
3. Be Patient and Consistent
Recovery is not linear. There will be setbacks. Your continued support, even during difficult times, can reinforce hope and resilience. *
4. Educate Yourself
Understanding addiction helps reduce stigma and improves your ability to support effectively. Resources from SAMHSA and Metrocare provide valuable insights into treatment options and recovery pathways. *
5. Take Care of Yourself
Supporting someone with addiction can be draining. Make sure to prioritize your own mental and emotional health. Joining support groups for loved ones, or attending individual or family counseling, can be helpful.
What Not to Do
1. Don’t Enable
Avoid behaviors that shield your loved one from the consequences of their actions, such as covering up for them or providing financial support that fuels their addiction. **
2. Don’t Shame or Blame
Addiction is not a moral failing. Shaming can deepen feelings of guilt and isolation, making recovery harder. *
3. Don’t Expect Immediate Change
Recovery takes time. Unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration and may harm your relationship with the person you’re trying to help. **
4. Don’t Ignore Your Boundaries
It’s okay to set limits. Boundaries protect your well-being and can help your loved one recognize the seriousness of their situation. **
5. Don’t Go At It Alone
You don’t have to navigate this alone. There are many organizations in Dallas ready to walk alongside you and offer support. Metrocare provides compassionate services for individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.
If you or someone you care about may need help, Metrocare is a trusted place to start the journey toward recovery. Click here to get started.
You can contact Metrocare HERE or call their main line at (214) 743-1200.
You can also reach them 24/7 on their Crisis Hotline at (214) 743-1215.
*SAMHSA’s Families Conversation Guide – Starting the Conversation: Supporting A Loved One Dealing With Mental and/or Substance Use Disorders
Visit SAMHSA’s main page here.
**Mayo Clinic – Intervention: Help a loved one overcome addiction
