How to Get Rid of an Addict

Drug addiction can be difficult, not just for the addict, but also for his friends and family. A serious addiction can drain a family's time, money and resources, in addition to imposing a huge emotional burden. In some cases, the only recourse is to cut the addict out of your life until he is cured. Doing so may in fact be beneficial to all parties.

Instructions

• 1

  Understand the nature of addiction, which will empower you to deal with the addict himself. Addiction results from a complex interaction of physiological and psychological mechanisms. It is not necessarily a product of "laziness" or a lack of willpower. Even people with no genetic or environmental predisposition can fall victim to addiction.

• 2

  Confront the addict in order to express your concern for his own health and your feeling that his addiction is creating problems in your own life. Tell the addict that you will sever personal and emotional ties with him if he does not find a solution to his drug problem.

• 3

  Set boundaries with the addict. Impose certain non-negotiable conditions related to his behavior; for example, you can refuse to spend time with him when he is under the influence and refuse to loan him money or to bail him out of difficult situations created by his own poor judgment. Setting boundaries gives you greater control over the situation and preps you for an eventual severance of ties, if necessary.

• 4

  Encourage the addict to enroll in a rehabilitation program. This may help cure him of the addiction while putting distance between you, him and his problem. Provide pamphlets or information about local rehab facilities to facilitate his enrollment. Remember, however, that not all addicts are cured by rehab programs, and even cured addicts may suffer a relapse.

• 5

  Sever communication with the addict if he refuses to seek treatment. Inform him that you have given him multiple chances and that his behavior has become a destructive influence in your own life. This process is known as "detachment," and while it is difficult to forcefully distance yourself from someone you care about, it's necessary for both your own well-being and his recovery.

• 6

  Evict the addict from your home, if he lives there. Change the locks and tell him he can only return if he successfully completes a treatment program.