I would like to hear thoughts from others about the best methods of counseling or encouraging people with addictions to overcome?

Does a strong "in your face" look at the consequences do any good? Can that be a wake up call, or does it always just turn people off so that they don't focus on working through the addiction?

Is it better to have a gentler accepting relationship with positive encouragement that accepts continued use? Or is that just too soft and allowing the addict too much coddling and pampering while they continue to prolong their addictions?

Your answers will be very appreciated. Other ideas also appreciated.

My brother has worked as a drug and alcohol counsellor and is a strong advocate of parents being able to put their kids into a rehabilitation centre they can't leave until over their addiction. If I were a parent in this position, I would want this.

It all depends on the addict. I have always believed, that when someone has had enough misery and pain, and isolation, they become more receptive to being helped. Until then they will kick, and fight, all the way to rehab and come out looking to get what they have been denied. It does help, when families, and friends, understand the addiction, and are willing to not enable them, let themselves be used, or help the addict in any way, until the have decided they want help, and then they still have to prove it, with actions not words. I've lost a few clients to their demons, but a few are successful, and productive. They best approach, I think, is no nonsense, help those that really want it, and let the rest suffer, until they are ready. At no time condone their addiction, or allow it to impact your life, I don't care if it's your mama.

I had a friend once who had kicked a heroin addiction. When I asked her what made her decide to quit when she did, all she said was, "A junkie never quits until they're ready".