Facing Denial: Ginny Mills on Patience and Compassion for Parents
I must remember that addiction is a brain disease. Therefore it is not a surprise that my daughter's thinking is affected when I encounter her denial, I will do my best to remember the guy on the subway, trust that the moments of clarity will come almost certainly wrapped in the gift of a gut-wrenching crisis, and be prepared with a plan of action to offer her.
Denial can be one of the toughest hurdles for parents of children struggling with addiction. In this heartfelt episode of 'A Dose of Hope', Ginny Mills, an addiction specialist and a mother who has walked this path herself, shares her wisdom on navigating this challenging aspect. Ginny emphasizes that denial is not just a refusal to see the truth but a complex part of the brain disease that is addiction.
This understanding can help parents approach their children with more compassion and patience, even when it feels impossible. She offers practical strategies for parents to cope, including seeking professional help and connecting with others who understand their struggles. Ginny's insights remind parents that taking care of themselves is crucial too.
Moments of clarity in their children can be both a blessing and a challenge, and Ginny advises on how to handle these moments with care and without falling into the trap of 'I told you so'. This episode is a lifeline for parents feeling overwhelmed by denial, providing them with the tools to face it with strength and empathy.