Family Ties and Addiction: Cynthia Smoot on Codependency and Boundaries
When the codependent cuts off the addict, I am forced to look at me, and that's what we call the rock at the bottom.
Ever wondered how your love and support might actually be enabling a loved one's addiction? In this episode of 'M2 THE ROCK', Michael Molthan sits down with Cynthia Smoot to tackle the tricky subject of codependency and its role in addiction. Cynthia, a publicist at Gangway Advertising and brand manager for M2 THE ROCK, opens up about her personal journey dealing with addiction within her family.
She shares how her well-intentioned support often crossed into enabling, and the hard lessons she learned about setting boundaries. Michael, who has walked his own path of addiction and recovery, adds depth to the conversation by discussing the spiritual aspects of overcoming addiction and the critical role of support networks. Together, they explore how recognizing and addressing enabling behaviors can make a world of difference in the recovery process.
Cynthia's story is a powerful reminder that addiction affects the entire family, not just the individual. She candidly discusses the moment she realized her 'help' was actually hurting, and how she learned to create a healthier dynamic. Michael emphasizes the importance of understanding addiction as a disease and the need for a higher power in the recovery journey. The episode also touches on workplace addiction, with Michael sharing insights from his experiences of seeing employers ignore substance abuse among employees.
Both Cynthia and Michael stress the need for education and awareness to break the stigma surrounding addiction and enabling behaviors. Their candid conversation offers hope and practical advice for anyone grappling with these issues. Tune in to this episode of 'M2 THE ROCK' for a heartfelt discussion that could change how you view support and recovery.