The Overlooked Sibling: Navigating Family Recovery from Substance Use Disorder
Listen to them, hear them, listen carefully and be there for them.
When a family grapples with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), the focus often lands squarely on the person battling addiction. But what about the siblings? In this episode of 'Siblinghood of Recovery', host Angie Reno sheds light on the often-overlooked role of the other child during the family recovery process. Drawing from her personal journey and backed by various studies, Angie dives into how siblings can influence each other's substance use behaviors.
She highlights the critical need for developing self-agency and self-efficacy among siblings, offering practical advice for parents on how to support all their children through these trying times. From coping strategies to scientific insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the full family impact of SUD. Angie discusses research articles, including those from Science.org and NCBI, and references studies like the Cardiff Study of all Wales and North West of England Twins.
These resources paint a comprehensive picture of how siblings' relationships can shape addiction and recovery pathways. By addressing the emotional and psychological needs of the 'other child', Angie provides a holistic approach to family healing. Whether you're a parent, sibling, or someone looking to support a loved one, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable steps to foster a healthier family dynamic.