• FREE CROCHET PATTERNS
    Don't have the budget to buy crochet patterns? Browse my huge collection of free patterns here, with projects ranging from amigurumi to clothing, home decor, and more! ♡
    Read more
  • CROCHET PATTERN ROUNDUPS
    Looking for inspiration for your next project? Get lots of ideas and patterns for a variety of themes, including holidays, craft fairs, keychains, no-sew amigurumis, and more! ♡
    Learn more
  • PRINTABLES
    Check out my free printables! There are printables to go along with crocheted items, printables for little ones, and printables for the home! ♡
    Learn more
Hey there!
Welcome to the Sweet Softies blog! Join me in celebrating the sweet things in life, from motherhood and education, to crafts, fashion, home, and more!

If you'd like to learn more about me, just click this button below!
WANNA KNOW MORE?
read more

Why Addressing Addiction is Vital for Effective Parenting


Did you know that roughly 23 million Americans battle addiction? The fact that addiction impacts more than simply the person addicted makes these alarming statistics even worse. Friends, relatives, and loved ones of an addict also feel the effects of their addiction. As a result, alcohol and drugs have a devastating impact on countless individuals. Because of the profound impact that addiction may have on loved ones, it is crucial to include them in the healing process. Addiction treatment may be more effective once parents address that addiction exists and start to enhance the recovery of their child.


Admitting a Change in Family’s Dynamics

You may find that dwelling on the "should've, could've, would've" details and previous actions about your child's addiction only serves as a way to avoid facing the present moment. Your child's addiction is the result of a chain reaction of decisions they've made, and those decisions have had an impact on your relationship and the dynamics of your family.

Though you can't undo how you reacted initially, you can utilize what you know about your connection with your kid to keep the lines of communication open today. Motivate your kid to open up by asking them questions and paying close attention to what they have to say. Learn from your child's mistakes and use that knowledge to guide your family's future communication.

Encouraging Positive Change and Treatment

Your child will be more likely to take the positive (and essential) step into an addiction treatment program if you encourage him or her to see his or her potential, take positive actions, make positive changes, and build a healthy life, rather than dwelling on past mistakes or bad decisions. One thing you can do as a parent is look into the various addiction treatment programs, such as olympusrecovery.com/treatment/php-addiction-treatment/, and have a conversation with your child about them. By taking the time to understand their situation and their aspirations, you may tailor a therapy plan to meet their requirements. Recognizing the importance of family support in recovery, you may also look for a treatment facility that lets you remain engaged.

Keep in mind that your job as a parent is not done here. Actually, right now is when you really need to start working on yourself and your relationships. Ignoring your child's addiction has surely affected you as well. Now is the moment to make the most of therapy, but it is also the beginning of your child's and your own path to recovery.
 

Finding a Treatment Program

Finding a treatment program that is appropriate for your child's age should be your first priority. While outpatient programs often emphasize on the psychological reaction to addiction, inpatient treatment institutions provide a more comprehensive, medically based approach. Factors such as the location of the treatment facility, insurance policies, and medications should also be carefully considered. Additionally, before you make a final decision, verify that the treatment facility has accreditation and that all employees possess the necessary licenses and certifications. After you've set your parameters, hit "Search" to get a rundown of all the facilities that fit your bill. While you research, think about suggesting that your kid join a group treatment program. Assuring your kid that they are not alone in their addiction may be of utmost importance, since addiction can be quite isolating.

Setting Clear Boundaries

The things you will and will not do for your kid constitute their limits, as opposed to regulations that are based on actions. All parties involved should treat you and each other in a fair manner according to these guidelines. Indirectly or directly, people with drug addictions are masters at pushing the limits of the people they care about. When you are calm and able to objectively decide what you can and cannot handle, that is when you should set your limits. Doing so will help you remain consistent when faced with situations that push your limits. Think about the following questions as you work with your kid to establish firm, transparent limits:
  • Are you prepared to tell lies to protect your child?
  • Would you be ready to put your child's needs above your own?
  • To what extent are you open to the idea of drug use?
  • In what ways do you anticipate your kid treating you?


Helping a Person Stay Motivated During Treatment

Finding motivation during treatment is probably one of the hardest parts of it. A person's family may have a significant role here. According to studies, having loved ones root for one's recovery could be a major motivator. A lot of people reevaluate their stance on drugs and alcohol when they see how it's affecting the people closest to them. Involvement of loved ones in treatment also gives continuous encouragement and support as a person strives to maintain sobriety.

Creating an Environment That Discourages Relapsing

Involvement of family members in therapy significantly reduces the likelihood of recurrence, according to studies. Having a safer home environment to heal in is a contributing factor. After treatment, a person is less likely to experience stress and loneliness if their family is actively engaged in their care. Rather, they experience a comforting and understanding feeling, which might assist them in overcoming their need for bad substances.

Practicing Self-Care

Parents with addicted children might greatly benefit from practicing self-care, which is defined as giving oneself the attention and resources one needs. Your stress levels will rise to the point of burnout as you try to meet your child's demands while dealing with extended periods of upheaval. Depression, anxiety, a compromised immune system (making you more susceptible to sickness), and many other physical and mental health issues may manifest as a result of elevated stress levels.

While sobriety is a long road, it need not be a lonely one. Relapse is less likely and sobriety is more enticing when loved ones are involved in the recovery process. Addressing addiction and doing effective parenting methods is an investment in a better future that will provide your child with the resources they need to overcome addiction.