When an addict is the child, spouse or parent of someone else, it’s easy to tell that person what to do. Kick him or her out, lock the door and close the drapes. Don't communicate at all until the addict completes rehab. When the decision about an addict is yours, the following factors should be primary.
Consider your physical safety. Depending on the addict’s drug of choice, your physical safety may come into play. Some drugs can cause the user to become argumentative and even violent. If you are fearful in your own home, it is time for the addict to find other living arrangements. Even an addict who would never become violent while sober can be capable of violence while high.
Protect your belongings: Active addicts often steal. They don't think about the sentimental value of your grandfather’s ring, or that sterling silver tea set your mom left you. If an addict wants to get high, anything of value is fair game. If it can be sold, pawned or traded for drugs, it is at risk. When the addict in your life starts stealing from you, it's time to rethink the living situation. Nobody should have to constantly guard their valuables or take daily inventories to see what's missing.
Minimize the drama: Do the local cops have your address memorized? Are they there on a regular basis? If so, your addicted loved one should probably hit the road because of the constant disruptions in your life they are causing.
The decision to make an addict leave your home is not always easy but if his or her addiction is significantly impacting your life in a negative way, it might be time. There may be other housing arrangements available, and a rehab center is an excellent option, also. If the addict declines rehab in favor of living on the streets, you did not cause that decision. Love the addict but also protect yourself. Whether or not to kick an addict out of your house is an extremely personal decision and each family is different.