Over recent years, a number of staggering reports have come to light about the reality of drug addiction around the world. Epidemics like the opioid crisis have impacted people of all walks of life and caused endless heartache for some families. If someone in your family has been struggling with addiction, you may want to take certain precautions as you plan for your wedding. Since receptions often involve alcohol, there may be a fear that you will be enabling your loved ones simply by including them in the events of the day.
The actual plan you put into place will come down to a few specific factors. Consider this advice for how to handle a family member’s addiction on your wedding day and find a solution that offers you peace of mind.
Communication Is Essential
Addiction is not always easy for families to talk about. Unfortunately, actively ignoring the issue can make it worse. If you are concerned about how your wedding will impact your relative’s road to recovery, have an open discussion about it together. The issue may be somewhat sensitive for your loved one, so be sure to have the conversation in a safe and comfortable place. Ask if there is anything you can do while planning your reception that may help this person avoid making any bad decisions over the course of the night. Often, this directness yields results.
Sadly, there are countless individuals who do not accept the fact that they are addicts. If someone in your family seems to have an issue with abusing alcohol or drugs, it may be a good idea to inform your vendors. The people tending bar should know if certain guests need to be cut off at a specific point in the night. While you may not be able to totally control the actions of your family member, you can put the right precautionary measures into effect to limit the odds of a scene breaking out.
Sober Relatives
It stands to reason you will have a guest or two who have been sober for several years. If this is the case, you probably won’t need to go to extremes. Someone who has been actively working on sobriety is more likely to have a number of strategies for dealing with the temptations offered during weddings. Still, you can take the extra step of speaking with your vendors and making sure there are enticing non-alcoholic offerings at the bar. Sparkling cider is a must to help relatives feel included in the toast.
Someone who has only been sober for a short time might be triggered or tempted without actively mentioning it to anyone. While you can’t know exactly what is happening inside someone’s mind, you can do your part to limit the odds of a relative feeling triggered. Talk to the servers at your wedding and mention which guests should not be offered wine or other alcoholic drinks. While it may be a small action, it can go a long way to reduce the odds of your sober relative taking a sip.
Extreme Cases
Drug and alcohol abuse can take many forms. Someone who refuses to get help and has a serious problem with addiction may be a time bomb at your wedding. Though you may feel a sense of guilt over it, there are situations in which it may be better to not invite this relative. Whether it is a parent, sibling, or other close relative, an addict who is not seeking help can turn your special day into a terrible nightmare. In the end, you need to do what is best for you and your significant other.
As addiction continues to impact more people around the world, addressing the issue in your family becomes more important. Take the proper precautions for your big day to ensure the safety and comfort of your guests.
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