Dealing with Substance Abuse & Addiction As A Parent

Addiction can be incredibly scary, as it can take hold of you at any stage in your life – whether you are a teenager dealing with substance abuse or a parent who has fallen into addiction to deal with the struggles life has thrown your way. However, you must find a way to safely and securely recover from the addiction instead of allowing it to spiral beyond your control. 

 

With that in mind, here are some simple ways in which you can begin to deal with and recover from substance abuse and addiction as a parent. 

• Admit that you have a problem. The first and often most significant step towards recovery is admitting that you have a problem. Though this may seem like the last thing that you want to do, if you can’t admit it to yourself – then you will struggle to find a way to move forward. Addressing the problems means that you are ready to change. 

• Start talking about your addiction. Though you may feel as though your addiction is a secret, it’s highly likely that your family and loved ones have already noticed, especially if there have been changes in your behavior.  In fact, it may very well be that they have tried to bring up the topic several times before, only to have you dismiss it. Either way, when you feel ready to do so, speak to a friend or family member about what is happening to you and decide within yourself to change. 

 

While you do not have to discuss the inner details of your addiction with your children, you should find a way to let them know that you are going through a hard time. Being candid about how you feel can help your children develop healthy coping mechanisms, and means that they will be less likely to hide their own emotions and feelings. 

• Work with a professional. Once you have acknowledged that you have an addiction in any form, you should begin to seek professional help. This is the easiest way to figure out what the next step should be for your recovery.  For example, moving from taking large amounts of a certain substance to taking none at all could send you into withdrawal, which could negatively affect your health. Working with an experienced professional can help you let go of your addiction safely, with your health and happiness in mind at all times. Thankfully, various treatment options are available, from therapy to drug rehab centers for union workers.

• Develop healthier habits. Often, we are pushed towards addiction in response to something that has happened to us previously, and we begin to use the addiction as a coping mechanism. As a result, to recover, you need to find a way to develop healthier coping mechanisms that you can rely on whenever you encounter a problem. For example, this could include taking a break when you begin to feel overwhelmed or participating in some light exercise. 

• Make time for self-care. Addiction can affect both our bodies and minds, meaning that you need to begin caring for your mental wellness during recovery. While talking about your feelings is a great way to get started, you should also start practicing self-care.