Allies in Recovery
Allies in Recovery
How Do You Acknowledge Use Without Accusation?
How Do You Acknowledge Use Without Accusation?
How Do You Acknowledge Use Without Accusation?
Friday 31st March 2023
Discover strategies for addressing a loved one's addiction without accusations. Get insights from 'Coming Up for Air' podcast.
24 minutes
Informative
Empowering
Encouraging
Thought-provoking
Supportive
About this podcast
Author:
Allies in Recovery
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Episodes:
253 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Balancing Compassion and Assertiveness: Addressing a Loved One's Addiction
Assertiveness is observing the behavior, stating the facts. You've been drinking or you need treatment. I've stated what I've seen, what I know to be facts, slurred words, bottles underneath the bed that are empty, and then I'm inviting you in to tell me what's the story, what's going on.
Ever wondered how to talk to a loved one about their addiction without it turning into a heated argument? This episode of 'Coming Up for Air' tackles that exact challenge. Hosts Laurie McDougall, Kayla Solomon, and Dominique Simone-Lavigne dive into the delicate art of acknowledging a loved one's substance use without falling into the traps of accusation or denial.
They start with a listener's question on this very issue, offering a blend of personal stories and practical advice to help families navigate these tough conversations. The key? Avoiding reactivity and planning your communication ahead of time. The hosts explain how aggression and passivity are often knee-jerk reactions that can derail any meaningful dialogue. Instead, they advocate for a balanced approach—stating the facts calmly and clearly, which not only keeps the conversation constructive but also empowers you in your interactions.
One of the standout points is the role of discomfort in fostering change. While it might seem counterintuitive, creating a bit of discomfort can actually be a catalyst for your loved one to seek help. However, it's crucial to do this without making them feel attacked. The hosts share strategies for being assertive yet compassionate, observing behaviors, stating facts, and inviting your loved one to share their perspective.
By mastering this approach, you can help your loved one feel understood while gently nudging them towards recovery. Tune in to this episode for invaluable insights and start transforming your approach to these challenging but crucial conversations.