Parenting Through Addiction: Real Talk and Real Support
This disease is stronger than the work sometimes, and life is very, very, very stressful and I just think it sucks.
Parenting a child with substance use disorder and mental health challenges is no walk in the park. In this episode of 'My Child & Addiction', a group of parents come together via Zoom to share their raw, unfiltered experiences. These are moms and dads from all walks of life—some in recovery themselves—who are navigating the stormy seas of their children's struggles.
They are joined by Brad Sorte, Chief Growth Officer and Executive Vice President at Caron Treatment Centers, who offers his professional insights. But this isn’t just another expert talk; it’s a heartfelt conversation among parents who truly get it. One parent candidly admits, 'This disease is stronger than the work sometimes, and life is very, very, very stressful and I just think it sucks'.
It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply within the group, highlighting the emotional toll that substance use disorder can have on families. The episode sheds light on the importance of support groups—both virtual and in-person—as lifelines for parents. These groups offer not just advice but a sense of community and understanding that can be hard to find elsewhere. The discussion also touches on the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brad Sorte points out that parents who had already built a support network found it easier to transition to virtual meetings. The group emphasizes the value of taking that leap of faith to join a support group, stressing how these connections can make a world of difference. Throughout the episode, parents share how they’ve managed to find moments of gratitude and perspective amidst the chaos.
One parent talks about surviving through a gratitude practice, while another discusses shifting their priorities and redefining what success looks like. Despite the tough conversations, there’s a thread of hope and encouragement that runs through the episode, offering listeners a sense of solidarity and strength. Tune in to hear these candid conversations and find out how these parents are finding their way through one of life's toughest challenges.