Families at the Heart of Substance Use Care: Insights and Real Stories
Episode Overview
Family involvement in substance use care is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in providing historical and present-day collateral regarding the client's care. Healthcare providers must create a safe space for family engagement, supporting families to ensure they're not shouldering excessive responsibilities. Navigating concerns around confidentiality and consent is vital, with a need to check in with clients and family members regularly about their capacity and support needs. Honest, open communication and fostering trust between clinicians and families are essential to combat shame and stigma surrounding substance use and support family engagement. The episode offers valuable clinical insights and lessons, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting the physical and emotional labor undertaken by family members.
Family often have had similar challenges as the clients you care for. Where possible, support the family to ensure that they are not taking on responsibilities that can and should be handled by a clinician or other support worker.
Ever thought about the pivotal role families play in supporting loved ones through substance use care? This episode of the Addiction Practice Pod dives into this crucial yet often overlooked aspect. Co-hosts Christina Chant and David Ball bring a fresh perspective by inviting Christina's sister, Lauren Chant, a seasoned registered nurse, to share her professional and personal experiences.
The episode is a blend of heartfelt stories and practical advice, highlighting the strengths and challenges of involving families in the care process. Christina and Lauren discuss biases, stigmas, and the importance of creating a safe space for family engagement. They stress the need for open communication, resisting shame, and fostering trust between clinicians and families.
Their insights offer valuable lessons for healthcare providers and individuals alike, reminding us that families can be a cornerstone of support in the journey through substance use care.