When someone dear to us is trapped in the grip of addiction, the suffering extends far beyond the individual—it engulfs family, friends, and everyone close. But what if they show no desire to change? What if every attempt to help is met with resistance or indifference? Today, we explore this complex reality that doesn’t just apply to those battling addiction but to anyone spiraling downward yet unwilling to take steps toward recovery.
In nearly every family, there is at least one person heading down a destructive path yet unwilling to alter their course. It could be someone battling substance abuse—alcohol, drugs, food, gaming, or workaholism. But it also extends to those stuck in toxic relationships, refusing to seek employment, or lacking motivation to take control of their lives.
From the outside, we clearly see the problem and believe the solution is simple. Just stop drinking. Just leave the toxic relationship. Just get a job. But for the person trapped in the situation, the solution is far from easy—if it were, they would have already broken free.
At the core of addiction lies a difficult truth: the person still perceives more benefits from their addiction than from sobriety. Only when the pain of addiction outweighs the perceived benefits will motivation for change emerge.
Consider someone addicted to alcohol. To us, it’s obvious that their drinking is destroying their health, relationships, and financial stability. But for them, alcohol provides an escape—a way to numb deep emotional pain. Even if they lose their job, their health declines, or their children refuse to speak to them, the perceived relief of drinking outweighs these consequences. Until the balance tips, they will continue down this path.
Addiction isn’t merely a battle of willpower—it often involves unseen forces. Many addicted individuals have spirits attached to them, entities that thrive on their destructive behaviors. These spiritual attachments can intensify cravings, create emotional turmoil, and make it significantly harder for the person to choose change. The addicted individual may feel an inexplicable pull toward their substance of choice, as if something outside of them is driving the urge. Releasing these attachments through spiritual healing can provide an added layer of support in breaking free from addiction’s grip.
We offer services to help individuals release these spiritual attachments and regain control over their lives.
We often plead with a loved one to change for us—for their children, their spouse, their parents. But external motivation rarely works. True transformation must come from within. Change driven by obligation or guilt is superficial and short-lived. It is only when a person decides to change for themselves that lasting transformation becomes possible.
This is why anger and frustration often arise in families dealing with addiction. Loved ones feel hurt, abandoned, and unimportant. “If they really loved me, they would stop.” But addiction doesn’t work that way. It is not a measure of love but a battle within the individual. And that battle must be won on their terms.
Many people unknowingly enable addiction. They cover up the problem, make excuses, and shield their loved one from the natural consequences of their actions. A spouse might hide alcohol use from friends and family out of shame. A parent might clean up after their child, offer endless financial support, or even provide money that fuels the addiction.
By removing consequences, we make it easier for addiction to persist. Why would someone change when they face no repercussions? If their basic needs are met despite their destructive behavior, there is no real incentive to seek help.
Avoid Attacking or Criticizing – Confronting someone aggressively only makes them defensive. They withdraw, hide their addiction better, and lose trust in you. Addiction is already rooted in deep shame and low self-esteem; harsh words reinforce these feelings.
Assess How You Might Be Enabling – Are you making it easier for them to continue their addiction? Shielding them from consequences may feel like an act of love, but it ultimately prevents change.
Let Them Experience Consequences – Sometimes, the most powerful wake-up call comes from facing the full impact of their choices. This might mean setting firm boundaries: You can stay in this house only if you are sober. I will not provide money unless it goes toward recovery. In extreme cases, it might even mean allowing them to end up on the streets or in the hospital—harsh as it sounds, it can be the catalyst for change.
Watching a loved one suffer is agonizing. The guilt can be overwhelming—Am I a terrible person for refusing to support them? Am I making things worse? But recognize this: you are not the cause of their addiction, nor are you responsible for saving them. The second they truly want help, you will be there, ready to support their recovery.
We must also confront our own fears. Are we afraid of judgment from neighbors? Financial loss? Being left alone? Even the fear of their death? The Universe places us in these situations not to punish us but to push us toward our own growth. Facing these emotions head-on leads to profound self-discovery.
Ultimately, each person must live their own life, make their own choices, and face their own consequences. The more we push, the more resistance we meet. Instead of forcing change, focus inward. Examine your own fears, emotions, and reactions. Learn from the experience. Strengthen yourself.
Only when a person is truly ready will they step onto the path of healing. And when they do, your unwavering support—free from resentment, control, or guilt—will be the guiding light they need.
About the Author:
Marianna oversees the daily operations of The Dr. Wanda Pratnicka Center, skillfully advising staff members on guiding clients through the spirit removal process. Her efforts extend beyond management; she is dedicated to raising awareness about the phenomenon of spirit possession, utilizing various platforms including events, books, and digital media. In her leisure time, Marianna delights in gardening, immerses herself in reading, and explores new natural wonders.
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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
1. You can find more information about common symptoms of spirit attachment / possession here:
2. How to check whether you or your loved one are experiencing a spirit attachment?
3. Want to learn more about how we remove spirits?
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