Family Support Articles

Family Roles in Addiction
Addiction

Family Roles in Addiction

While an individual diagnosed with a substance use disorder plays the role of “the Addict,” it does not mean that other family members do not also play crucial parts in the disease of addiction. These roles may be unconsciously taken on by loved ones. Just as the addict may be

The Entanglement of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
Addiction

The Entanglement of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders

Many times, mental health disorders are found to exist alongside substance abuse and dependency. Some underlying disorders include depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder and anxiety. Trying to diagnose a mental health disorder can also be tricky when one engages in the use of alcohol, opioids, cannabis, stimulants, or other illicit

Wife, Kids, Job…and Recovery? Finding Balance in Early Sobriety

TJ’s wife called him crying. She’d just gotten a call from their oldest son’s school about something he’d said to a classmate. Their son, 10 years old, was having trouble with bullies, and he’d told one of the bullies he wished he would die. He’d also recently told Bekah, TJ’s

Coping & Strategy Tips for Family Talking About Opioid Addiction

When someone in your family or special in your life is struggling with addiction, it’s hard to watch them suffer. However, many individuals are fearful of confronting their friend or family member because of the way they might react. It’s understandable. A lot is riding on a successful outcome, but

My Son Has a Drug Problem

I can still see my mother’s face when I came clean with the truth about my penchant for long-sleeved shirts in the summer. My family knew something was awry. They watched before as addiction took me tumbling down an abyss. The illness progressed rapidly in my mid-20s, and now, coming

5 Tips for Family and Friends of an Opiate Addict

After working with families and close friends of opiate addicts in the most difficult stage of addiction (4th stage), I’ve noticed one primary characteristic present: negative enabling. Consistent exposure to active addiction has the potential to make the most stable person somewhat neurotic. Often, I see family and friends desperately