When a child struggles with addiction, he or she rarely do it alone. The disease has a huge impact on the whole family. The great news is that millions of young people are finding recovery, and attribute it to their parents’ involvement in their ability to achieve sobriety.
Many young people believe these are some of the ways their Dads can help their children with addiction:
Never Give Up
A father sends a very powerful message to their children by being present during the recovery process., especially when they are struggling. Always reaching out and being there for them lets them know you they have your support. While it may be difficult for Father’s to keep reaching out as their children struggle with their drug abuse problem, this commitment can make a significant difference in your child’s recovery.
Give up Control Not Love
Learning to deal with the inability to control the situation may your biggest challenge. The disease can cause feelings of anger, try to be mad at the addiction and not the child. Showing unconditional love and faith that your child will find recovery, will have a tremendous impact on their struggle with addiction.
Giving up control and not love is a process and a choice. It begins when we start to understand the difference between what we can control and what we can’t. The disease is enemy, not our children. Unconditional love increases the probability that our loved ones will ask for help with their addiction. The support of family and friends can be valuable in the success of their recovery.
Create Boundaries
Boundaries determine who participates in our life and how. Healthy physical and emotional boundaries are paramount to our well-being. Many young people believe having healthy boundaries is what helped them recognize they needed help with their disease.
Drawing Boundaries can be drawn firmly without anger. They need to be shown compassion and empathy. You can let your child know they will have your support when they are ready to get help.
Share Yourself With Your Child
It’s important to be present and share yourself during their recovery. Being open and sharing your mistakes and struggles in life can help them to not repeat their own. Your children can benefit from your life experiences and create a reciprocal relationship. Share what works for you in life, but not in a preachy way.
This Father’s Day, we thank our dads, whose children struggle with alcohol and substance abuse. We hope all children achieve lasting recovery and live a healthy fulfilled life.
At Asana Recovery, we provide a comprehensive treatment program to people with substance abuse issues. Each program is designed to the particular needs of each client so they can receive the help they need and deserve. Ask your company to contact us today at 949-438-4504.
