For Family

A major focus of our program is helping people “let go” of taking responsibility for their loved one’s alcohol or drug addiction and/or recovery process. As a result of living in the midst of addiction, family members often need to refocus their energy on their own wellbeing and relationships because so much of their energy has been focused on the addict. This need to refocus is referred to as “detaching with love,” the idea of choosing to be in a relationship with someone you love and care for without losing yourself in the relationship. It means not doing for others what they need to do for themselves. It means loving the person, but not necessarily his or her behaviors.

Adapting these new beliefs and practicing these new behaviors does not happen overnight. Encouragement, affirmation and the support of other people who know what it’s like to live with addiction will help you navigate this new territory. Getting involved in your own support group, such as a Twelve Step meeting like Al-Anon or Families Anonymous, will be of tremendous help. These Twelve Step support groups can be found in virtually every community. They provide an ideal follow-up to our Family Program, by helping you practice and strengthen your recovery skills.