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
Addiction
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
It’s Okay to Ask for Help!
There is a wonderful saying that tells us “Our secrets keep us sick.” Many loved ones of addicts don’t talk about their struggles or reach out for help because of the shame they feel for being in this situation. But until we ask for and receive the help we need, we don’t learn how to do things differently. Recovery begins with self-awareness and with the willingness to ask for assistance when we need it. … [Read more...] about It’s Okay to Ask for Help!
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?
