Every September, Recovery Month offers us a poignant reminder of the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing journey of individuals and families navigating the path of addiction recovery. It’s a time to reflect on the impact of substance use disorders, celebrate the strength of those who have chosen the path of recovery, and acknowledge the vital support of families and communities in this journey. My personal story, from a harrowing 15-year battle with opioid addiction to over 37 years of sobriety and a very successful career as an Addictions Therapist, embodies the essence of Recovery Month. My experience sheds light on the profound difference that informed and compassionate support can make in the lives of those fighting to reclaim their lives from addiction.
The Fine Line Between Helping and Enabling
One of the most crucial lessons from my personal journey is understanding the difference between “Helping” and “Enabling.” Families often find themselves at a crossroads, wanting to support their addicted loved ones but sometimes continuing to enable even when they know they’re doing it—thus contributing to the continuation of the addiction.
Helping involves actions that encourage recovery and self-sufficiency, such as supporting a loved one’s treatment plan, attending family therapy sessions, and setting healthy boundaries. On the other hand, enabling behaviours, though well-intentioned, occur when a family member does for the addict what they can—and should—be doing for themselves. This allows the addiction to continue without consequence and can include making excuses for the addicted person’s behaviour, covering up their mistakes, or providing financial support that is used to sustain their addiction.
Tips for Fostering a Supportive Environment
Educate Yourself: Understand that staying in addiction is a CHOICE, and the addict you love does have control of that decision. Family members will need to allow addicts to experience the consequences of remaining in addiction in order for the addict to make the decision to change what they are doing. Resources like family addiction therapy, support groups, and educational materials can offer valuable insights.
Encourage Treatment: Firmly encourage your loved one to seek professional help and explore treatment options together. Remember, recovery is a personal journey, and the decision to seek help must ultimately come from the addict, although the family can play a very important part in this decision.
Set Healthy Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries is essential for your well-being and their recovery. Communicate your limits with love and consistency. If you find that you have trouble doing this, know that you are not alone! Receiving some counselling for yourself from an addiction professional can give you the grounding and support you need to be successful at setting respectful boundaries that will help both you and your addict.
Practice Your Own Self-Care: Supporting someone through recovery can be emotionally taxing in many ways. Ensure that you’re taking care of your mental and physical health and seek support for yourself as needed.
Honouring the Journey of Recovery
Recovery Month also serves as a tribute to those who continue to choose sobriety every day. It’s a choice that requires immense courage, commitment, and resilience. My personal transformation from opioid addiction to a life of sobriety and service is a testament to the possibility of recovery. It’s a reminder that, with the right support and resources, individuals can overcome addiction and lead fulfilling lives. Recovery IS possible!
As we observe Recovery Month, let’s commit to differentiating between “Helping” and “Enabling,” fostering environments that support recovery, and celebrating every step taken toward sobriety. Let’s honour the individuals and families who face the challenges of addiction with courage and love, and let’s remember that recovery is a reality for the thousands of people who make that choice in their lives—every day!
