By definition, an enabler is someone who accommodates an addicted individual as a way of protecting them from facing the full consequence of their drug use. For example, it might be continuously giving someone money despite the fact that they are unable to hold a steady job due to their drug use. Or, it might be giving someone a car despite the fact that they keep wrecking theirs due to drunk driving. While these are larger contributions when it comes to enabling, it could be something smaller too – there are many different scenarios that fall under enabling.
Enabling is a difficult topic because as a friend or family member of someone suffering from addiction, it can be easy to just do this almost without even thinking about it. However, it is an act that can truly be detrimental to someone’s recovery. Enabling is deceitful and might sometimes feel like you are truly helping them, but while it might seem like a simple act of kindness, if it is not in the best interest of their recovery then you might actually be hurting them rather than helping them. Be mindful of how your actions play into the overall recovery of your friend or family who suffers from some sort of addiction.
