When Can Your Loved One Live at Home? Balancing Boundaries and Trust
So when he came back again, so things like if he was in the bathroom too long, I would stand at the bottom of the stairs and I would look underneath the door. I'm not going to, I'm not able to stop him.
Deciding when your loved one can live at home during their addiction recovery journey is no small feat. In this episode of 'Coming Up for Air', hosts Laurie McDougall, Dominique Simon-Levine, and Kayla Solomon tackle this complex issue head-on. Laurie opens up about her own experience with her son, sharing the trials and triumphs of setting boundaries while trying to build trust.
She recounts setting up a cot for her son in a communal area of the house as a way to prevent opioid use—a strategy that, while not perfect, helped establish some ground rules and mutual respect. The conversation emphasizes the need for families to model positive recovery behaviors. Laurie puts it simply: 'We need to show what good boundaries look like.' By doing so, families can demonstrate the importance of prioritizing recovery.
The hosts also delve into the tricky topic of drug testing. While it can be a useful tool, Laurie warns that it must be handled with care. Misusing drug tests can create tension and even drive a loved one away. Clear communication and thoughtful implementation are key. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice and heartfelt stories, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on the delicate balance of trust and boundaries.
Whether you're contemplating having your loved one move back home or already navigating this challenging terrain, you'll find valuable insights and support here.