Protecting Children in Families Affected by Addiction
Episode Overview
Teach children that addiction is a no-fault disease. Encourage children to speak up when they feel unsafe. Utilise resources like Sesame Street and Betty Ford Children’s Program. Identify safe adults children can turn to for help. Emphasise the importance of setting healthy boundaries.
We tell kids not to get into a car with a drunk driver, but what if the drunk driver is a parent?
Margaret Swift Thompson, a seasoned Hazelden Betty Ford counsellor, dives into a critical issue affecting many families in this episode of The Embrace Family Recovery Podcast. The focus is on how to protect children in families struggling with addiction, especially when the person driving under the influence is a parent. Margaret shares heartfelt advice on setting healthy boundaries and empowering children to speak up when they feel unsafe.
She emphasises that addiction is a disease and not the child's fault, providing practical tools like Sesame Street resources and the impactful work of the Betty Ford Children’s Program. Margaret's compassionate approach aims to educate both children and adults on the importance of safety and communication within the family unit.
She also shares her personal experiences and stresses the significance of teaching children about the no-fault nature of addiction, helping them understand it's okay to ask for help and set boundaries. The episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to support and protect children in such challenging circumstances. Margaret's insights offer hope and practical strategies for families navigating this difficult journey. So, if you're dealing with similar issues, this episode could provide the guidance and support you need.
What steps can you take today to ensure your child's safety and well-being in a family affected by addiction?