Handling Mean Behaviour from Loved Ones Struggling with Addiction
Episode Overview
View addiction as a separate entity from your loved one. Remove yourself from confrontational situations. Get creative with your escape strategies. You deserve to feel safe at all times. Seek community support for additional ideas and encouragement.
Staying engaged in an argument or staying in a space where I felt physically threatened is never okay
When dealing with a loved one struggling with addiction, things can get tough, especially when they start getting mean. In this episode of 'Love Over Addiction', Michelle Anderson shares practical advice on how to handle these challenging moments. She introduces the concept of viewing addiction as a third party in the relationship, separating the addiction from the person you love. This approach can help with forgiveness and understanding why someone you care about can act so cruelly.
Michelle recounts a personal story where she chose to walk home rather than stay in a car with her angry ex-husband. Her message is clear: you don't have to endure abusive behaviour. You have options, and sometimes, the best choice is to remove yourself from the situation entirely. Michelle encourages creativity in finding ways to stay safe and avoid confrontation. The episode is filled with hope, encouragement, and a touch of humour, making it both relatable and informative.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by a loved one's addiction, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips to help you navigate these difficult situations. Tune in for a supportive and empowering discussion that reminds you that you deserve to feel safe and respected.