Mike asks: How can we educate young people to understand that even experimenting with pot can be a slippery slope, particularly when the family doctor has said it's harmless if they only smoke pot occasionally? Hi Mike, This makes me crazy. When I was first diagnosed with Crohn's all those years ago, my doctors didn't know what to do for me, and addiction wasn't on the radar—so today I cut them a little slack. They didn't know what they were unleashing upon me. But they know now. Doctors know … [Read more...] about How can we educate young people to understand that even experimenting with pot can be a slippery slope?
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Accepting “What Is”, Even When It’s Difficult
It is important to accept where we are when we love an addict. Self-Care is the most important goal to have – it will help you and it will become better role-modelling for the addict you love. Increasing your Self-Care is truly the best thing you can do for yourself and for everyone around you – a true win-win! … [Read more...] about Accepting “What Is”, Even When It’s Difficult
Our Secrets Keep Us Sick
Because the loved ones of addicts often believe they are to blame for this addiction, they have a tendency to stay silent in shame. But they are not to blame, because addicts make their own choices about how to live their lives. When loved ones start to speak their truth about this, and start to have healthy boundaries, they begin to learn how to HELP their addict rather than continue to enable—and everyone can then start their journey to wellness. … [Read more...] about Our Secrets Keep Us Sick
Navigating Addiction during the Christmas Season: A Guide to Finding Peace and Support
As the end of another year quickly approaches, the festive cheer of "The Holidays" is upon us. However, for many, this season may not bring the peace and joy often depicted in commercials and magazine spreads. This year, as many years before it, has seen its share of challenges, including the tragedies of opioid overdoses and other heartbreaking events, making the holiday season a difficult time for countless families. The pressure to maintain a facade of holiday happiness can increase feelings … [Read more...] about Navigating Addiction during the Christmas Season: A Guide to Finding Peace and Support
What role does family therapy play in addiction recovery?
Anne asks: What resources are available for families dealing with addiction, and what role does family therapy play in addiction recovery? Hi Anne, I will answer the second one first. The role that family therapy plays is huge. It's so huge that, at Love with Boundaries, we will rarely work with an addict if their family isn't involved. Every once in a while, we have somebody with an addiction get in touch with us and say, “I really want to stop. My family isn't interested in participating. … [Read more...] about What role does family therapy play in addiction recovery?
