Addiction can take many forms, from mind-altering substances to mood-altering behaviours, and almost everyone on the planet today is either affected by addiction—their own or someone else’s—or they know someone who is. For an addict to have a chance to recover, changes need to happen with their loved ones first. Until a friend or family member changes what they’re doing, it’s unlikely that the addict in their lives will. Loved ones need to let their addicts know that they will not support them … [Read more...] about The Top 10 Reasons to Stop Enabling the Addict You Love
Addiction in the Family
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
Mental Health, Addictive Behaviours and How Families Can Help
In today's fast-paced world, the conversation around mental health and addictive behaviours has become more critical than ever. The intricate connection between the two is undeniable, with each influencing and exacerbating the other. It’s important to shed light on this complex relationship, the toll it takes on families and other loved ones, and offer guidance on navigating these turbulent waters. The Interconnected Spiral of Mental Health and Addiction Mental health issues and addictive … [Read more...] about Mental Health, Addictive Behaviours and How Families Can Help
Navigating the Ripple Effects of Addiction in Families
For many years, I've explored the turmoil faced by families of addicts, highlighting a significant gap in support for these individuals. Despite the abundance of resources for addicts themselves, their loved ones often navigate the chaos alone, struggling to find assistance. The Unseen Victims Addiction doesn't just affect the individual; it sends shockwaves through their entire network of relationships. In my presentations, I demonstrate this by showing how many people are directly impacted … [Read more...] about Navigating the Ripple Effects of Addiction in Families
All Change Begins with Self-Awareness
Emotional maturity is what we develop when we take the time to know ourselves more deeply. When we aren’t self-aware in a problematic situation, many of us will reach for a drug or a drink – or some other kind of addictive behaviour. In my experience, I’ve found that it’s actually easier to do the inner work it takes to live with self-awareness and self-respect, rather than to stay stuck in addiction. Please reach out for help doing this, whenever you need it – although we each need to do our … [Read more...] about All Change Begins with Self-Awareness