James asks, how can we easily and clearly explain to those who believe addiction is a disease that recovery from addiction is a choice? Hi James, Most people know about 12-step programs, which basically tell the addict and the family that addiction is a disease, that people are powerless over this disease, and that relapse is a normal and natural part of recovery. I don't believe that for a second. It took me about five years of being in 12-step programs in my early recovery to get to a … [Read more...] about How Can We Explain That Recovery Is a Choice?
Ask Candace
How to Talk with a Loved One Who Denies They Are Addicted
Laurie asks, what do you do when someone you love is addicted and abusing drugs, but when you try to talk to them about it, they continuously deny it. How do I help them when they won't be honest with me? Hi Laurie, This is a common situation. You know that somebody is using, you know that they're in active addiction, you know that you've seen the signs—they've changed right before your eyes. But when you try to talk to them, they tell you they don't have a problem. What we need to … [Read more...] about How to Talk with a Loved One Who Denies They Are Addicted
Important Steps Loved Ones Can Take to Support Recovery
What are the important steps loved ones can take to support someone's recovery? In a recent Ask Candace Live!, someone asked this question. I think it's so important to help people who are in active addiction, who are wanting help and are ready for help. I think it's also really important to support those of us who are in recovery. Even though recovery can be quite difficult because we're no longer stoned and drunk and we have to actually face life, it's still a much better option than being in … [Read more...] about Important Steps Loved Ones Can Take to Support Recovery
How can a colleague or a friend raise a concern about suspicions of addiction?
Q: And how do you balance raising the issue or concern with showing empathy and not damaging the relationship? How do you encourage them to get help? The short answer to all of your wonderful questions is: “Very carefully.” I remember when I was still using, many years ago, and a colleague of mine who was also my friend let me know that she thought I had a problem. I don't remember exactly what she said, but because of the person she is I'm sure she had love in her heart when she said that … [Read more...] about How can a colleague or a friend raise a concern about suspicions of addiction?
How Can We Educate Young People About Pot?
Q: 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? Doctors are amazing people, and I have some great doctors now. I've also had some not-so-great doctors over the years as well. The truth is that doctors simply don't know everything. For a doctor in today’s world to say that smoking pot – even occasionally – is fine, is just wrong. I used to … [Read more...] about How Can We Educate Young People About Pot?
