During treatment for opiate addiction, Megan talked a lot with her counselor about her family of origin, childhood, and, in particular, her father's aloofness. As a child, Megan always blamed herself for her inability to "connect" with her father Sam. Megan's mother lavished affection and attention on her but Sam ... Read More
Featured Help for Loved One
The Role of Fathers in Breaking the Cycle of Emotional Unavailability
Signs a Loved One May Be Hiding A Drug Problem
The signs of a drug problem can be subtle and creep up so slowly that it may be difficult to identify whether a loved one is in trouble. Addiction experts say that a drug addiction typically begins with recreational use and then expands from there. Over time, in some people, what may appear to be a harmless behavior ... Read More
Addicts Can Be Manipulative: Recognize the Signs
According to statistics from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's 2018 survey on drug use and health, more than 164 million people ages 12 and older say they used some type of illegal substance in the past month. Addiction doesn't discriminate, and anyone — regardless of gender, race, ... Read More
10 Ways to Support a Spouse While They’re in Rehab
When a spouse goes to rehab for an addiction and/or mental health condition, everything changes at home. This is all so new, and the situation going forward is both anxiety-provoking and uncertain. What's involved in supporting a loved one in rehab? How does one help and not hinder a spouse in early recovery? Will the ... Read More
Choosing to Date Someone in Recovery
The power of attraction may be undeniable, yet before embarking on a dating relationship with someone in recovery, take a careful look at what you're getting into. Dating at this time may not be in either of your best interests, despite your desire to be together and weather all challenges. That said, countless ... Read More
How (and Why) to Talk About Your Family’s Mental Health History
As we continue to learn more about mental health and the origins of many mental illnesses, family mental health history continues to become a more focal issue, and not without good reason. More information comes out every year that suggests that mental illness is passed down genetically, meaning that if a person's ... Read More
Self-Care Tips for Protecting Your Mental Health When You Love Someone with an Addiction
Every person trying to beat addiction or dealing with a substance abuse problem needs a support system. But if the support system is primarily a single individual, it can take a huge toll on that person's mental health. If you have a loved one who is going through the journey of rehab and entering into a sober ... Read More
How to Write An Impact Letter: A Step Toward Recovery
Updated May 31, 2023 When you have a loved one facing addiction, it's not always easy to vocalize your feelings. The pain, stress and pressure that come with watching someone you care about slowly spiral out of control are agonizing, and there's no good way to reveal your feelings without being met with anger or ... Read More