How to Help A Family Member with Addiction

We’re doing something a little bit different today, which is to look at addiction through the lens of the family. I can't tell you how many times I’ve talked to the family members of someone struggling with drugs & alcohol who just want to know how to help and are feeling scared, angry and confused. Shoot, I’ve been there myself! It’s a really tough spot to be in.

 

So today I’m speaking with Dr. Carrie Wilkens about the outdated messaging that is currently being circulated, what actually hurts, and what to do instead. We are going to review solutions provided in her book Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change and the accompanying workbook with the tagline Evidence-based Skills to Help A Loved One Make Positive Change. 

 

To give you a little insight as to what you can expect, I’m going to share an Excerpt from her blog about the myth of rock bottom: 

“First, it promotes a belief that the change process cannot start until bottom is reached. It also implies that people won’t change unless they are “punished enough” by their own behavior that they see the light. Both of these assumptions could not be further from the truth and they have contributed to many treatment providers sending patients away and telling them to “come back when you’re ready.” It’s also contributed to family members and friends feeling like their only option is to step aside and watch their loved one suffer. Many opportunities for change and lives have been lost due to this flawed belief and culturally loaded statement.”

 

So good! I will leave a link in the show notes at odaatchat.com

 

The Myth of Rock Bottom - https://motivationandchange.com/who-needs-to-hit-rock-bottom/

 

I do have one quick announcement: There is a new resource available on my website called “How to Quit Drinking: 30 Tips for your first 30 Days”. It has practical strategies for getting started, how to avoid cravings, and what to do if you get a craving, and simple mindset hacks to get you through the day. You can download it for free at soberlifeschool.com.

 

I know this is going to be a great episode, so if you find it helpful or know someone who will, please share it. 

 

Connect with Carrie here:

Website: https://cmcffc.org/

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