LL Asks: As my adult child gets off crack, should we move to another apartment so the room where he took drugs is not familiar or a trigger? Hi LL, I’m glad you wrote to me. What I’m hearing from your question is about how you can be most supportive of your son as he tries to get off crack, and I think that it’s terrific that you want to support him. There is nothing wrong with wanting to do that. As for moving to another apartment, if this is something you can afford and you have thought … [Read more...] about Should We Move to Avoid a Trigger?
Helping vs. Enabling
The Importance of Loved Ones of Addicts Being United
Sheila asks: My husband and I have very different approaches to helping our son with his alcoholism, and it's causing arguments and problems in our relationship. How do we come together and agree on a plan? Hi Sheila, I see this happen so many times. We rarely see a family come to us where everybody is in agreement. We usually see families where one parent is enabling an adult child—meaning that they're giving them money, doing things for them, driving them places because the child had a DUI … [Read more...] about The Importance of Loved Ones of Addicts Being United
Encouraging Family Participation in the Journey Toward Recovery: A Reflection on World Drug Day
Today, June 26th, is designated as World Drug Day, also known as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. It's a moment for us to reflect on the profound impact of addiction not only on individuals but on their families and loved ones as well. This day serves as a global observance to highlight the critical fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, reminding us of the collective action required to address these challenges. However, beyond the global call to … [Read more...] about Encouraging Family Participation in the Journey Toward Recovery: A Reflection on World Drug Day
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
How Can We Explain That Recovery Is a Choice?
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?
