Facing Relapse: Parents Share Real Stories and Strategies
One of the things that's helped me lose a little bit of fear about relapse is that we've talked in our parents' groups about how relapse is not really an event.
When your child relapses, it can feel like the world is crumbling. In this episode of 'My Child & Addiction', a group of parents opens up about their experiences with their children's relapses and their own struggles with enabling behaviors. This candid discussion is joined by Eric Webber, Clinical Director of the Men's Relapse Unit at Caron Treatment Centers, who offers professional insights into the process of relapse.
The parents, who come from diverse backgrounds and have children ranging from teenagers to adults, share how attending support group meetings has provided them with much-needed community and understanding. One parent mentions how setting firm boundaries has been crucial in dealing with their child's addiction and PTSD, helping both the parent and child navigate the challenging journey of recovery.
Eric Webber emphasizes that relapse is a process, not a single event, and introduces an exercise called the relapse cycle to help track thoughts and behaviors leading up to a relapse. The episode underscores the importance of focusing on progress rather than perfection and highlights the value of self-care for parents. This heartfelt conversation provides practical advice and emotional support for anyone facing similar challenges.