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?
Helping vs. Enabling
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
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
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!
