Behaviors by family or friends that unintentionally protect a person from the natural consequences of their substance use (for example, repeatedly paying their fines or covering for missed work).
In the context of addiction treatment:
Enabling often comes from love and fear, not bad intentions, but it can make it easier for the addiction to continue.
What to know:
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Setting healthy boundaries is not abandoning someone—it’s protecting both them and you.
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Family programs and therapy can help loved ones change enabling patterns.