Support Groups for Families of Addicts – Break the Isolation

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Addiction is a complex issue that affects not only the individual struggling with substance use but also their entire family. 

In fact, a 2023 study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that 63% of family members of addicts report experiencing significant emotional distress due to their loved one’s addiction. 

Support groups for families of addicts provide a critical network of compassion and understanding, helping families navigate the challenges of addiction and recovery.

What are the best Support Groups for Families of Addicts?

Support groups for families of addicts are dedicated spaces designed to offer emotional support, coping strategies, and a sense of community to those affected by a loved one’s addiction. There are variety of support groups for families of addicts, including: 

  1. Al-Anon Family Groups
  2. Nar-Anon Family Groups
  3. Families Anonymous
  4. Family Services Programs offered by Substance Abuse & Rehab Centers

These groups help families understand addiction dynamics, share experiences and solutions, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Engage with the community to learn how support groups can transform the recovery experience for both the addict and their family.

families of addicts support

Types of Support Groups for Families of Addicts

While addiction takes its toll on the individual struggling with substance use, the impact extends far beyond. 

Family members often carry a heavy burden, experiencing emotional strain, confusion, and feelings of helplessness. Fortunately, there’s a powerful resource available: support groups.

According to a 2024 study by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), 78% of families reported feeling a significant improvement in their well-being after participating in support groups. 

These groups offer a safe space to connect with others who understand the unique challenges of addiction, providing invaluable support on the path to recovery.

Here’s a look at some of the different types of support groups available for families of addicts:

1. Al-Anon

A foundational support system for families of alcoholics and addicts. Rooted in spirituality, Al-Anon promotes personal growth and fosters a sense of shared wisdom through regular open meetings.

  • Focus: Support for families of alcoholics and addicts.
  • Approach: Spiritual foundation, promoting personal growth and shared wisdom.
  • Meetings: Regular, open meetings fostering a supportive environment.

2. Nar-Anon

Designed specifically for families struggling with a loved one’s drug addiction. Based on the 12-step program, Nar-Anon meetings provide a safe space to share experiences, find acceptance, and gain support on the path to recovery.

  • Focus: Specifically designed for families of drug addicts.
  • Approach: Based on the 12-step program, focusing on acceptance and recovery.
  • Meetings: Provides a safe space for sharing challenges and triumphs.

3. Families Anonymous

Offers broader support for families dealing with any form of addiction. Emphasizing anonymity and shared experiences, Families Anonymous meetings encourage family involvement in recovery, fostering a sense of understanding and mutual support.

  • Focus: Broader support for families dealing with various forms of addiction.
  • Approach: Emphasizes anonymity, shared experiences, and mutual support.
  • Meetings: Encourages family involvement in recovery, enhancing understanding and support.

4. Family Services Programs offered by Substance Abuse & Rehab Centers

Designed to support families affected by addiction, these programs provide comprehensive assistance that emphasizes education, support, and professional guidance. Rooted in a community-based approach, Family Services Programs help families develop a deeper understanding of addiction and foster resilience through a collaborative recovery process.

  • Focus: Comprehensive support for families dealing with addiction.
  • Approach: Community-based, emphasizing education, support, and professional guidance.
  • Meetings: Includes educational sessions, support groups, and access to professional counseling, creating a supportive environment for family recovery.

Contact Project Courage for more information on joining a support group

helping families of addicts

Benefits of Joining Support Groups for Families of Addicts

For families grappling with a loved one’s addiction, the journey can feel overwhelming. Isolation and emotional strain often become significant barriers to healing. 

However, joining a support group can offer a powerful solution, extending far beyond simple emotional support.

A recent study found that 82% of families participating in support groups reported a significant increase in their sense of empowerment when dealing with addiction. 

Support groups provide a unique space for families to not only share their burdens but also gain valuable tools and resources to navigate the recovery process effectively.

Here’s a closer look at the empowering benefits of joining a support group:

  • Emotional Support: Share your journey in a supportive, understanding environment.
  • Coping Strategies: Learn how to handle complex emotions and situations.
  • Setting Boundaries: Develop skills to maintain healthy relationships.
  • Self-Care: Prioritize your well-being to better support your loved one.
  • Resources and Information: Access valuable resources to navigate the recovery process effectively.

Risks of Not Participating in Support Groups for Families of Addicts

Standing by someone battling addiction can feel isolating. 

Support groups offer a lifeline, but skipping them can lead to serious consequences. 

A 2023 study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that families who did not participate in support groups were three times more likely to report experiencing clinical levels of anxiety and depression compared to those who did.

Without the support network and tools offered by groups, you might face:

  • Isolation: Feeling alone in your struggles.
  • Emotional Overwhelm: Difficulty managing emotions without support.
  • Ineffective Coping: Relying on poor coping mechanisms that can exacerbate stress.
  • Boundary Issues: Struggles with setting and maintaining healthy boundaries.
  • Lack of Information: Missing out on valuable guidance and resources.

Call today for a confidential consultation on joining a support group

support for families of addicts

Finding the Right Support Group for Your Family

Support groups offer invaluable resources, but finding the right one is key. 

Here’s what to consider:

  • Know Your Needs: What are you hoping to gain? Sharing experiences? Coping skills?
  • Research & Match: Look for groups aligned with your family’s values and specific needs (e.g., Al-Anon for families of alcoholics).
  • Try It Out: Attend meetings to find a comfortable, welcoming environment.
  • Virtual or In-Person: Choose the format that best suits your schedule and preferences.

Project Courage offers a variety of support group options specifically designed for families.

We provide a safe, supportive space for you to heal and connect with others on this journey.

Conclusion

Support groups for families of addicts play an essential role in the recovery process. 

They provide a foundation of support, education, and community that is vital for healing. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of addiction in the family, consider reaching out to a support group.

Share this information with others who might benefit and contact Project Courage for further support

Compassionate, Family-Based Addiction Treatment in Connecticut 

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Struggles with addiction affect more than just the addicted family member. The battle to overcome addiction and codependency can be hard for everyone. However, you and your loved ones are not alone in your journey.

At Project Courage, we center the person and their healing journey. 

Through narrative techniques, internal exploration, mindfulness, volunteering, and the power of family connections, people learn to reconnect with themselves. As you go through the healing process, you will learn to love and accept yourself as you truly are. 

This approach is uniquely effective at building the life-long confidence and self-compassion to stay clean from drugs and alcohol. 

The State of Addiction in Connecticut

Substance abuse is a silent epidemic that is responsible for tearing apart families and ending lives. 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 12 have reported using drugs or alcohol in the last month. Since 2020, a half a million people have died from opioid overdoses. In a world where it is easy and cheap to find your next hit, the most powerful thing you can do is to say no to the siren call of drugs and alcohol. 

Even if you have tried before, tried everything, and don’t think you can do it. You can. Recovery and healing are possible when you have the right care and support system. Continue reading to learn more about addiction treatment in Connecticut. 

Download Our Guide: Understanding Addiction and Recovery

What Are the Risks of Not Treating Addiction?

Everyone with addiction-related challenges feel like they have their usage under control. 

When your life hinges around a single goal, it can feel impossible to seek addiction treatment programs in Connecticut. However, the risks of remaining addicted are very real:

  • Loss of employment and/or housing
  • Estrangement from family and friends
  • Dangerous and erratic behavior 
  • Risk of arrest or incarceration
  • Increased chance of getting HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and viral infections
  • Long-term drug use is linked to several types of cancer
  • Frontal lobe damage, resulting in memory loss
  • Poor mental health leading to suicidal thoughts and actions
  • Risk of unknowingly harming family members
  • Death 

You may believe that these are things that only happen to other people, but the risks are very real for everyone who struggles with addiction. The key to saving an addicted person’s life is early intervention with addiction treatment CT. 

Project Courage offers a variety of treatment options, from intensive outpatient programs to at home support and family services. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or for an addicted family member, contact us for more information. 

Connecticut Addiction Treatment Programs & Services that Work

No matter how hopeless things may seem, healing and recovery are always possible. Project Courage has helped many Connecticut families overcome addiction and return to a safe, happy, fulfilling life. You can read their stories here. 

At the core of Project Courage is the belief that understanding our own stories is the key to true healing. As a provider of addiction treatment in Connecticut, Project Courage offers the following services: 

  • Intensive Outpatient Programs offer flexible individual support. During an IOP, you get around 3 hours a day of treatment. For each person the type of treatment is a little different; Project Courage offers individual therapy, family therapy, group meetings, community events, and medication support. 
  • In-Home Recovery Services allow you to remain in a place where you feel safe while undergoing treatment. IHRS has all the results of a traditional rehab without the disruption to your life, social connections, and schedule. With in-home services, treatment options like therapy come to you. 
  • Family Services are available because it can be isolating for families to navigate addiction recovery. Project Courage offers support, guidance, and solidarity for the family, as well as the person in recovery. 

Call Project Courage today for a confidential consultation. 

substance abuse treatment plan

18 Benefits of Attending a Connecticut Addiction Treatment Program 

Many people before you have come to addiction treatment centers in CT and discovered the benefits of living a life free from drugs and alcohol. 

Physical Benefits of Getting Clean

  1. Reduction of addiction-related illnesses
  2. Improved overall health
  3. Longer life expectancy
  4. Better sleep, appetite, and mental health
  5. Return to a healthy weight
  6. Immune system will be stronger
  7. Ability to think clearly
  8. Elimination of paranoid thoughts and habits

Social Benefits of Recovering from Addiction

  1. Repair and continue your relationships
  2. Make your children and parents proud of you
  3. Be a role model for others in your community
  4. Increased involvement in the lives of your kids, siblings, and parents
  5. Ability to advance in your career 
  6. Form new friendships and relationships
  7. Take up new hobbies and interests
  8. A new social circle of friends who support recovery
  9. You can spend your money on things you enjoy, like travel
  10. Stronger community connections 

You are strong enough to begin the path of healing. Project Courage works with most insurance plans. Verify your insurance now to begin the process.

Why Choose Project Courage for Connecticut Addiction Treatment

The reason why Project Courage produces so many success stories is because our team shows up as authentic human beings. Before someone is an RN, an intake clinician, or a recovery coach, they are a human being whose lived experience and compassion are just as valuable as their knowledge of data. Our form of addiction treatment in Connecticut centers human feelings, stories, truths, and love as the driving force behind healing. 

Many of the people you work with have been where you are standing. Several members of the Project Courage team have experienced struggles with addiction or known an addicted family member. They know that recovery is not easy. They understand that it takes bravery and will to forge a new, healthy path. Above all else, we at Project Courage are on your team. There is no judgment, shame, or rejection if your path looks different than ours. 

Addiction Treatment CT Locations & Community Partners

The Project Courage is located on Elm Street in Old Saybrook where the Connecticut River meets the Long Island Sound. Our cozy, welcoming building sits just off I-95, and is less than an hour away from both Hartford and New Haven. 

Just as each person in addiction treatment needs support and connections, our program utilizes community connections to enrich our patients and give back to the community. Each year, Project Courage hosts various events to raise money for charity. Past events have included 5Ks, softball leagues, dodgeball tournaments, and basketball matches. Our team also works with many of the local schools to help guide young people away from drugs and alcohol.

Insurance & Financing for Treatment

Project Courage offers options for financing, like interest-free payment plans. 

We will also work with your insurance. Our list of accepted insurers include: 

  • Aetna 
  • Anthem
  • Cigna
  • Magellan Healthcare
  • United Healthcare
  • Access Health CT
  • Optum

Verify your insurance to explore your financing options.

Healing is Possible with Addiction Treatment in Connecticut

Your life is too valuable to give it over to drugs and alcohol. If you or a family member struggle with addiction and codependency, there is hope. Project Courage, a Connecticut addiction treatment center, provides the support and resources for people to overcome their addict behaviors.

Every life is worth saving from the clutches of addiction. Even if the path to recovery seems impossible, you are capable of healing yourself and recapturing the life you love. 

The risks of drugs and alcohol are too great to put off treatment for another day. Call today for a confidential consultation and information on the intake process. 

Family Roles in Addiction – 7 Roles Perpetuating Addiction

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Substance use disorders do not occur in a vacuum; the key to preventing and treating substance abuse is to understand family roles in addiction. Families of addicted loved ones often unknowingly feed the addiction by falling into dysfunctional habits. Because addiction also affects a person’s loved ones, it requires everyone to heal from that dysfunction for addiction recovery to be successful. 

How Can Family Influence Addiction?

Genetics can predispose someone to developing an addiction; however, dysfunctional family roles can drive that person to drug and alcohol dependence. When a loved one is in the throes of addiction, their behavior can affect the entire family dynamic. People can unconsciously fall into dysfunctional roles such as The Enabler as they attempt to cover for the addict. However, the family role in addiction recovery can be a powerful tool to return to sobriety. Community-based addiction treatment is one of the most successful frameworks to help an addicted person stay clean in the long term. 

Although only a single loved one has a substance abuse disorder, successful addiction treatment goes beyond just them. Family roles in addiction are simultaneously the cause, the reason for continuation, and the treatment for drug dependency. When a family can transform their dynamic and rally in support of their addicted loved one, real healing and transformation can begin. 

This article will discuss the causes of addiction and the role of group dynamics in continued substance abuse. If you have any questions about the content below, contact Project Courage for more information.

What are the Causes of Addiction?

No one intends to struggle with substance abuse and mental health, nor would anyone wish those things on any of their family members. However, if you can understand the causes of addiction, you will be in a better place to understand how your loved one fell into substance abuse. 

At the biological level, addiction is relatively straight forward. Humans are driven to do enjoyable behaviors in order to receive a chemical called dopamine. This chemical is what gives you a sense of joy or pleasure. However, maladaptive and dangerous behaviors trigger a dopamine response just as much as healthy behaviors do. When someone tries a drug or consumes alcohol and gets that dopamine rush, their brain and body wants them to continue that behavior. When someone turns to drugs and alcohol for that dopamine rush and can’t stop themselves, that is when the behavior becomes addictive. 

Over time, the body will adjust to the new normal of drugs or alcohol. You will build up a tolerance so that you will need more of a substance to get the desired dopamine response. With some drugs, like opioids, the severe withdrawal symptoms will make it painful to stop taking the drug, incentivizing addicts to continue. 

Is Addiction Hereditary or Environmental?

Very few human behaviors can be attributed exclusively to genetics or to environmental causes. Addiction is no different. Researchers agree that addiction is caused by some combination of both environmental and hereditary factors. 

Research on substance use disorders indicates that an estimated 40 to 60% of addiction risk is genetic. Even if a parent or grandparent has never experienced substance abuse issues themselves, they can still pass on the genomes that cause addiction risk.

Additionally, the social environment can also contribute to addiction, even if the addiction gene is not present. For example, if parents model addict behaviors, either knowingly or unknowingly, that can instill the seeds for addiction and codependency in their children. Parental attitudes, availability of drugs and alcohol, weak social bonds, and dysfunctional family roles can also lead to addiction. Substance abuse in teens and young adults often begins as a misguided need for autonomy.

Family roles in addiction are complex. It often takes trained addiction professionals to untangle the dysfunction that perpetuates addiction. If your loved one struggles with addiction,  schedule a consultation with a recovery expert at Project Courage. 

What is the Impact of Addiction on Families?

Addiction affects more than just the person struggling with substance abuse; struggles with addiction radiate out to affect everyone the addict knows and loves. It is common for group dynamics to adapt to a loved one’s substance use disorders, creating unhealthy coping mechanisms that encompass the entire family unit. 

New research indicates that addiction is a family disease. It is not enough for the person with addict behaviors to get clean; siblings, parents, and children should also attend therapy and support groups to help them end the cycle that allows addiction to continue. 

Download our Guide: Understanding Addiction and Recovery

How Addiction Alters Family Dynamics 

When a loved one falls into drug and alcohol dependency, it can create or exacerbate dysfunctional family roles. Siblings, parents, children, and people who struggle with addiction often report the following experiences: 

  • “Jekyll and Hyde” behavior from their loved one, creating fear and unease over which version of their family member they will get that day.
  • An atmosphere of mistrust, suspicion, and betrayal that extends beyond the person struggling with addiction.
  • Fear of relapse or overdose leads to a constant elevated state of stress, which is unsustainable. 
  • Addicted family members may engage in criminal behavior, including stealing from loved ones. 
  • The monetary side of addiction: families put a lot of resources into supporting, saving, and trying to help their loved one get clean. This can lead to economic instability and resentment. 
  • Addiction can cause estrangement when siblings, children, and parents disagree about the best course of action for their loved one.

Unpacking Common Family Roles in Addiction

Families that engage in group therapy to treat addiction often realize that their dynamics unknowingly led their loved one down the path to substance abuse. These stories and discoveries are the key in effectively treating addiction at the family level.

These are some common ways that parents unknowingly play a role in addiction:

  • Teens see their parents drinking frequently, which leads them to think that they should also drink alcohol frequently.
  • If an ill loved one has prescriptions for opioids, someone else may take one of their pills not realizing that it’s stronger and more addictive than OTC medications.
  • Young adults who feel like they don’t fit into the family unit may turn to their peers for guidance on what is right and wrong.
  • If undiagnosed mental or physical illness runs in families, it is not uncommon for self-medicating through drugs and alcohol to be normalized.
  • Young adults and teens may turn to drugs and alcohol to rebel against strict rules and high expectations 
  • Children in broken or dysfunctional families may turn to drugs and alcohol to fill an emotional void.

The 7 Family Roles in Addiction

These 7 roles frequently show up in households that are experiencing addiction:

1. The Addict

They are the central figure whose behavior impacts all other family dynamics. The addicted loved one will likely have dependent behaviors as they attempt to support an active drug or alcohol habit. In extreme cases, the addict may resort to stealing, lying, and manipulating everyone around them to secure their next hit. 

2. The Caretaker

This is the person who devotes all their energy into maintaining balance and harmony at the cost of their own needs. Caretakers may fall into increasingly more dysfunctional roles in the family to try and keep everyone around them happy at any cost. Caretakers often believe that if everyone could just get along, then the issues will disappear without having to be addressed. 

3. The Hero

Often an eldest child or a perfectionist, Type A person. They will strive for perfection in all things in order to compensate for the family issues. Heroes believe that everything will be okay if they just attain a new level of success and leadership. However, these self-induced expectations cause anxiety, depression, resentment, and other mental health challenges. 

4. The Scapegoat 

In the roles of a dysfunctional family, the scapegoat is often the youngest or middle child. They are the one who is most often blamed for all the problems. Because of this, they are incentivized to act out and get into new trouble so that they divert attention from the addict. In extreme situations, the scapegoat may be unable to manage the compounding blame and feelings of anger. The scapegoat may estrange themselves from the family in order to escape their role. 

5. The Mascot 

It is common for the mascot to be the youngest person in the family. They will use humor as a coping mechanism to bury their own fears, diffuse tension, and gain approval from those around them. The mascot is often emotionally fragile. They are unequipped to deal with negative feelings, so they become the jokester to protect themselves from the turbulent dynamics around them. Mascots often believe that if they can keep everyone around them happy and laughing, then the problems they witness will cease to exist.

6. The Lost Child 

This person is the one who is quiet, withdrawn, and overlooked. Because they are less involved in the drama and disagreement that stem from dysfunctional family roles in addiction, they receive less attention. When the lost child is routinely forgotten, they are likely to self-isolate or estrange from the rest of the family. This behavior can have a negative effect on other relationships that they pursue.

7. The Enabler 

This person will enable the addict by supporting them, making excuses for their behavior, lying to everyone around them, and not creating boundaries with the addict. Although the enabler can be anyone, it is most often a parent, grandparent, or older sibling. While enablers mean well and genuinely believe that they are doing the right thing, their behavior makes the problems of addiction and family dysfunction worse.

How to Break the Cycle

The first step in ending the destructive cycle of addiction is for everyone to understand and acknowledge the role of family in addiction. Once a family is able to see how their actions are unknowingly perpetuating dysfunction, they can take steps towards real healing. 

Project Courage is an addiction treatment center in Connecticut, which specializes in outpatient family-based recovery programs. Contact us today for more information on the intake process and your options for treatment. 

Family Roles in Addiction Prevention

While family dynamics and heredity can contribute to addiction, they can also be the solution for addiction as well. 

Substance use disorders are a life-long battle that can bring family members into dangerous, illegal, and unhealthy situations. The long-term health risks of substance abuse include cancer, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, risk of blood diseases, dental disease, weight loss, and necrosis of bowel tissue. 

The best solution for addiction is prevention. 

Here are 6 ways parents can prevent their teens from becoming addicted to drugs and alcohol: 

  1. Maintain strong family bonds by telling your kids that you love them, spending quality time together, and supporting your teen’s interests. 
  2. Lead by example: if you don’t consume alcohol or use medically unnecessary prescription drugs, your children won’t get into drugs and alcohol by trying to imitate you. 
  3. Discuss the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse with your children, no matter how old they are.
  4. Keep a close eye on any prescription drugs in the home. If a prescription painkiller is no longer needed after a medical event, dispose of the medication.
  5. Monitor your teens for changes in mood, sleep habits, school performance, and openness.
  6. Maintain open communication with your teen and remind them that you are here to help them out of trouble, not get them into trouble. 

These are hard conversations to have with teens. If you need support or resources during this process, please contact Project Courage for more information. 

Family-Based Addiction Treatment in Connecticut

As the first and strongest support system that a person can have, it is important to include the family unit in the process of healing from addiction. 

Because addiction causes family members to fall into their own dysfunctional roles, it isn’t enough to just help the addicted person get sober; everyone must find a path forward and reconfigure their group dynamic.

This is why Project Courage offers in-home, family-based, and outpatient program options. Our team believes that no person is an island, so the power of community is the best way to heal. If your loved one has a substance use disorder, contact Project Courage to learn about our intake process. 

Why Family Support Groups Are A Crucial Part Of The Treatment Process

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Some of the most common questions and comments we at Project Courage get from loved ones of our clients are:

“What’s next for our family?”

“What do we do now?”

“Why did this happen?”

 “What should we expect from treatment?”  

The answers to all these questions are so very important. The question and comment that really strikes us here, though, is this: “I feel so alone, is anyone else going through this?” We can answer with guaranteed certainty – No, you are not alone, and YES, others are going through this too. Whether you are a parent, child, spouse, sibling, friend or someone struggling with addiction, you’re not alone and there are others going through the same thing as you, who are probably wondering if they are alone too!

We hear families say, “I feel so embarrassed, like I’m the only one going through this with my family member. No one talks about these things!”  Shame of feeling “abnormal” or that “something is wrong” with your family or loved one keeps people from talking about this and finding relief with others who are struggling as well. When a loved one is in treatment and struggling with an addiction to alcohol and drugs one of the most therapeutic activities is for family members is to participate.

We offer a family psychoeducation and support group for families that runs from 5:30-6:30pm on Mondays. It gives an overview on brain biology of addiction, key concepts family members need to know to help their loved one, and how to practice self-care. This group is perfect for families of our current clients just starting out in treatment.  

Another very popular group is Al-Anon. According to their literature, “Al-Anon members share their own experience, strength, and hope with each other. You will meet others who share your feelings and frustrations, if not your exact situation. We come together to learn a better way of life, to find happiness whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not.”  Al-Anon has meetings all throughout the world.  

We encourage anyone who is interested in coming to one of our groups to reach out at 860-388-9656!  

By: KC Hespeler, LCSW

Families In Recovery

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I grew up with an alcoholic mother and watched many people I loved, including myself struggle with drinking. “Drinking alcohol was not the problem, but there was always a problem when we drank alcohol.”  I met a man with the same affinity for drinking and we were on our merry way.   

My husband’s parents had long term, sustained recovery and were very active in Alcoholics Anonymous. We used to laugh at the pamphlets they would send and even use them as cocktail coasters. When I became pregnant and had to stop drinking, I could. My husband’s drinking continued until it became evident that he could not stop. He struggled through several recovery programs but found his way through his family and the 12 steps. 2 years before his brother found the rooms of AA. His other brother continued to struggle for a long time. Both of my husband’s grandparents were alcoholics and several of his Uncles. To say this is a family disease is an understatement.  

We all worked our programs very hard and applied the steps and principles to all areas of our lives. As most members of my husband’s family, we had two boys. They were not going to be affected by this cunning and baffling disease!…so I thought. We know so much about addiction and recovery, of course we can keep this from impacting them. The truth of the matter is, putting down the substance is the easy part. It is what addicts are trying to avoid, not feel, escape, or drown out that is the real disease. Mental health is the driving force behind addiction. Sitting in our self-defeating thoughts, anxiety, depression, anger, trauma or any other emotion is hard and substances can make that go away…for a little while. 

When several family members are in recovery it is important to remember that each person got there on their own, with their own “stuff”, so must they find recovery. 

I have had several parents come in and share their own recovery story and try to micro-manage their child’s, “because they know”. This is not entirely untrue, but do they really know? Life impacts us all differently, our resilience, our experiences and our relationships. There is no “one-size -fits-all” recovery and addiction does not discriminate. 

Autonomy in recovery is not only important, but necessary. If an individual is not doing what they need to do for themselves, then it won’t work. Many start recovery when they are given an ultimatum from a loved one, or are court ordered. This is effective for changing pathways in the brain that tell us that when we experience difficult emotions “you should drink”. We can learn coping skills, identify triggers and work on putting the substance down. To truly recover and maintain sobriety, each individual has to find their own path, what works for them. This can be Alcoholics Anonymous, Refuge Recovery or several other options. For some exercise, faith, music, art, the options are endless. Addressing mental health concerns is the difficult part. It is hard enough to identify what you may be struggling with, let alone find the solution, but it can and has been done, over and over. 

Project Courage Resources:

AA Meeting: Fridays @12noon