Dealing with a Loved One's Addiction Problem

Jul 14, 2024

Dealing with a Loved One's Drug or Alcohol Problem

Introduction

  • Having a loved one with a drug or alcohol problem is like being held hostage.
  • Controlled by fear, motivated by resentment and frustration.
  • First step: Stop making emotional decisions; start making strategic, logical decisions.
  • Presenter: Amber Hollingsworth, Master Addiction Counselor

Three Main Approaches

1. Detach with Love

  • Description: Backup, save yourself, powerless approach.
  • Pros:
    • Helpful for self-care while dealing with the nightmare of addiction.
    • 12-step Al-Anon meetings available globally, easy access, free.
    • Some research supports its effectiveness.
  • Cons:
    • Relies on the loved one realizing their problem and wanting to get better.
    • Difficult to maintain emotionally, especially for close relationships.

2. Tough Love

  • Description: Confrontational, boundary-setting approach.
  • Pros:
    • Helps in preserving the rest of the family.
    • Comparable to amputation to save the body from gangrene.
  • Cons:
    • May not necessarily lead the loved one to get better.
    • Extremely difficult for parents, akin to putting your kid on the street.
    • Doesn't fix them or the problem.

3. CRAFT Method (Community Reinforcement and Family Training)

  • Description: A proactive, less commonly known method of dealing with addiction.
  • Process: Guides families step-by-step to get their loved one to accept the problem and seek help.
  • Pros:
    • Statistically, more effective than other methods (more than twice as effective).
  • Cons:
    • Less known, fewer trained practitioners.
    • Requires professional guidance and is challenging.
    • Involves significant willpower, discipline, strategy, and decision-making.

Additional Resources

  • Videos on the CRAFT method available on the channel.
  • Recommended book: "Beyond Addiction" (link available in the video description).

Conclusion

  • There's no wrong choice among the three methods; sometimes a combination is needed.
  • Family recovery is strategy-dependent on specific situations.
  • Aim: Make the best choice for you and your family.