The holidays are supposed to be a time for family, festivity – and they often also present a full spectrum of emotions. For many, this season marks the first large family gathering since the COVID-19 pandemic began, bringing with it a mix of beautiful reunions and potential challenges. The dynamics of family relationships can be complex, and when addiction is part of the equation, these complexities are magnified. As we step into this new year, it's essential to address the emotional aftermath … [Read more...] about Coping with Family Relationships After the Holidays – When You Love an Addict
Healthy self-care
Who Are You Taking Care of First?
When we are in an airplane, we are told that if the oxygen masks come down, we need to put our own mask on first. How tempting it is sometimes to want to do just the opposite! But if we can’t breathe, we can’t help anyone else breathe. We need to take care of ourselves on an ongoing basis in order to be able to give to anyone else in healthy ways. … [Read more...] about Who Are You Taking Care of First?
Be Gentle with Yourself
Anyone who is in a relationship with a practicing addict knows that there can be unexpected pitfalls around any corner. As we start picking up the pieces of our own lives, it’s important to be gentle and patient with ourselves. … [Read more...] about Be Gentle with Yourself
Self-Care and Selfishness are NOT The Same Thing
When we are taking good care of ourselves and others in our lives accuse us of being “selfish,” that could be because they want us to keep catering to their needs instead of our own. Be careful not to buy into that way of thinking. Self-Care and Selfishness are two very different things. … [Read more...] about Self-Care and Selfishness are NOT The Same Thing
Holistic Self-Care Is Vital to a Healthy Recovery
The importance of balanced self-care cannot be overstated - both for you and for the addict you love. When we take care of ourselves, we develop our self-respect, which in turn lowers our need for choosing addictive behaviours. Whether it’s you deciding to stop any enabling you might be doing, or your addict making the decision to go into recovery, a sense of self-care and self-respect will be the springboard for these healthy choices. … [Read more...] about Holistic Self-Care Is Vital to a Healthy Recovery
