First, convince yourself that getting rid of (recovering from) any addiction is not only possible, but necessary! Of course, the first, second, and even tenth conversation with a patient may not bring the expected results , but you can’t give up. A person should not be left alone, feel abandoned and receive confirmation that they have been given up on. It will take a lot of time and effort to convince you of the need for treatment and rehabilitation. Relatives and friends need to clearly understand what they will have to face. Conversation with a dependent person: the basic rules for its construction Never shout, do not intimidate, and avoid threats. Otherwise, you will only anger the patient, drive him crazy and give him a desire to avoid this conversation in any way. Your intonation should be calm, and your words should express unconditional arguments in which there is no reason to doubt. Be sure to tell about your experiences, pain and your own fear. A dependent person can resign himself to his fate, give up on his life and health, but he can listen to the story of your suffering. Talk about how much he is dear to you, how afraid you are of losing him, how you want to see a smile and a happy look on his face. At the same time, remember that reproaches and pity should be completely excluded. Constantly remind you of life values. Yes, any addiction distorts a person’s perception of reality, but up to a certain point it does not deprive him of morality. In a conversation, use the opinions of people who are authoritative for the addicted person, and if possible, be sure to involve them in participating in the conversation. Very often, the words of a friend or harsh statements from a stranger have a greater effect than your daily repetition of the same thing. Develop and establish clear, strict rules and frameworks for the patient. Include some household chores in his circle of responsibilities, and also ask him for help in any actions. This will make him feel needed and significant. It is important to choose the right time for conversation. People suffering from alcohol and drug addiction are able to adequately perceive information only for a few hours a day. Pathological gambling addicts are ready for this only during the period of absence of an acute craving for the game. There is no need to appeal to their conscience and reason during the game, in a state of euphoria, or ask for help during “withdrawal.” Learn to firmly refuse and stand unshakably in your decision. Do not feel sorry for the patient, giving money to relieve pain at the moment of “withdrawal”, do not put up with or cover up his actions. I know well that every rule is quite difficult to follow. Therefore, I and all our specialists from the Renaissance Scientific Center are ready to provide the necessary assistance in building the right dialogue, in developing the right behavior with an addicted person.