is someone else's drinking or drug use impacting your relationship with them? 

Alcohol and drug abuse impacts everyone who loves and cares about the person using. Maybe it’s your partner, a parent, or your child. They may realize they have a problem, or they may be in denial that anything is wrong. If you are frustrated because the alcoholic or addict is unwilling to get help, or they are trying to recover and keep stumbling, know that you can help yourself.

Addiction is often referred to as a family disease. While genetics play a role for some, there are also longstanding patterns that families develop to cope and relate to each other when addiction is present. Unspoken rules like don’t talk, don’t feel, and don’t trust often are common in families experiencing addiction.

Talking with someone else and getting the support you need is critical to keeping your own sanity. As I’ve worked with people, I’ve found it’s important for you, as their loved one, to know that you:

• Didn't cause it.

• Can't cure it.

• Can't control it.

You can take care of yourself.  When your loved one is ready to get help, you can be more effective in supporting them if you have your own support in place. I will work with you to get the support and care you need and deserve, while learning how to develop effective ways to relate to your loved one who is struggling. 

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