Navigating Addiction: Q&A with Aly Ries
Episode Overview
Long-term success in recovery often requires ongoing care beyond residential treatment. There are various recovery pathways beyond traditional 12-step programmes. Family support plays a crucial role in the recovery process. It's normal to experience ups and downs in recovery; there's no 'perfect' way. Parents should seek support for themselves to better help their loved ones.
There is no perfect recovery... it's a lifelong journey, a practice more than anything else.
Aly Ries, Caron Treatment Centers' Director of Development and Alumni Relations, takes the hot seat in this episode to answer pressing questions from parents grappling with their children's addiction. The discussion kicks off with Aly highlighting the importance of ongoing care beyond residential treatment. She explains that long-term success often hinges on a continuum of services, including partial hospitalisation, outpatient programmes, and individual therapy. Aly's insights are a breath of fresh air for parents seeking clarity and direction.
The episode also explores various recovery pathways beyond the traditional 12-step AA approach. Aly sheds light on alternative programmes like Dharma Recovery, which is based on Buddhist principles, and SMART Recovery, a secular programme rooted in cognitive behavioural therapy. She emphasises that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and sometimes a mix of different approaches can be the most effective. Family support is another critical theme. Aly stresses that having a strong support network can significantly impact recovery outcomes.
Caron offers numerous resources for families, including support groups and webinars, to help them navigate this challenging journey. Aly reminds parents that their well-being is just as important, encouraging them to seek support for themselves as well. One of the most comforting takeaways from the episode is Aly’s reassurance that there is no 'perfect' recovery. She normalises the ups and downs, urging families to celebrate small victories while preparing for inevitable setbacks.
Her advice to lean on others who have been through similar experiences resonates deeply. If you're a parent feeling overwhelmed by your child's addiction, this episode offers a blend of practical advice and heartfelt encouragement. Tune in to find out how you can support your loved one while also taking care of yourself.