Life feels like it is spiraling out of control.
Ten years ago we started on this journey with our oldest son. There were times when I felt like things were spiraling out of control. I look back now and I'm not sure how we survived it, but we did!
As most parents, I never thought it would happen to us.
This is what I have learned over the years --
Finances - We invested in our son's recovery each time we paid for a counselor or treatment program. After my son went to a residential treatment program, followed by a long period of recurrence of use, I remember wondering if it was worth the money that we had spent. He now tells us that it gave him the tools and foundation for recovery.
Family Dynamics - We had our rough moments, but we tried to keep a strong loving connection with our son throughout the journey. I remember telling him, "we believe in you, you just need to learn to believe in yourself".
Wellbeing - I have seen first-hand how family members become ill because of stress and all the focus zeroed in on their loved one. We are role models for our loved ones and we need to take care of ourselves for our own wellbeing. Plus, when we change our focus, we may impact those around us to change as well. Look at the 7 dimensions of wellness from SAMSHA and evaluate if you have some gaps in your self-care.
Find Your People
The key is to not isolate and to find support groups where you feel connected to other people so that you may learn and grow in community. I had to try several support groups before I found "my people", people that I felt connected to. I hope you will try ILLUME and see if this might be the right community for you.