Yes
we need to stop rescuing them.
We need to stand back and allow them to suffer the consequences of their actions. Then he or she will have a motivation to change this destructive behaviour pattern of abusing drugs or alcohol.
This isn't easy. Our instinct as relatives or friends may be to keep on rescuing them. But if we're really committed to helping this person, we won't allow ourselves to do that. It'll only make matters worse.
I mean it
this can be tough. This is someone that you care about. So if - because of their drug or alcohol abuse - they're broke, or hungry, or homeless, or in trouble with the police or their employer - it takes real strength to stand back and let them get on with it. To let them face the consequences.
It may help to remember that:
This is not your problem
It's their problem!
Also, please don't forget that there are support groups such as Families Anonymous, ADFAM and Al-anon who provide help and support to family and friends of drug or alcohol abusers. Their addresses are here. Any street drug or alcohol agency will be able to give you advice as well.