Craig Brown | Founder | Stop Hiding Start Healing


1. Educate Yourself About Addiction

     

      • Learn the science: Understand that addiction is a symptom of something much deeper and there treatments that can help heal emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually

      • Recognize the signs: Familiarize yourself with symptoms of addiction and relapse behaviors: mood swings, anger, isolation, withdrawn, weight loss, detachment 

      • Seek resources: Books, workshops, and support groups (like Nar-Anon, Celebrate Recovery, Stop Hiding Start Healing) can provide valuable insights.


    2. Foster Open Communication

       

        • Be supportive, not judgmental: Create a safe space for honest conversations.

        • Listen actively: Let them express their feelings without interrupting or blaming.

        • Set boundaries: Be clear about acceptable behaviors while maintaining compassion. Share these with the individual. Think logically not emotionally. 


      3. Encourage Professional Help

         

          • Explore treatment options: Research rehab programs, therapy, inpatient or outpatient services.

          • Work with experts: A recovery coach, counselor or addiction specialist can guide both the individual and the family.

          • Support their recovery plan: Encourage attendance at 12-step meetings such as Celebrate Recovery, therapy, or other structured recovery activities.


        4. Avoid Enabling Behaviors

           

            • Don’t shield them from consequences: Allow them to face the outcomes of their actions. They must be allowed to feel the pain.

            • Avoid providing money: Financial support can unintentionally fund their addiction.

            • Say NO! when needed: Be firm but loving to prevent enabling.


          5. Focus on Healthy Boundaries

             

              • Define your limits: Decide what behaviors you will and won’t tolerate. Write them down and share with the individual

              • Protect your emotional health: Prioritize self-care and avoid burnout. Know your limitations. You do not have the capacity or power to change the person.

              • Stay consistent: Follow through with consequences if boundaries are crossed. This is extremely important.


            6. Build a Support Network

               

                • Join support groups: Engage with others who understand your situation. Search for a Celebrate Recovery meeting in your area.

                • Lean on family and friends: Share your struggles with trusted loved ones. Trusted loved ones. People who are safe and can be trusted. 

                • Seek therapy: Professional guidance can help you navigate your emotions.


              7. Be Patient and Realistic

                 

                  • Recovery is a process: Expect setbacks and celebrate progress, no matter how small.

                  • Separate the person from the addiction: Love your family member but hold them accountable for their actions. They already feel like a failure and feel pain and shame. 

                  • Practice forgiveness: Let go of past resentments for healing to occur.


                8. Promote a Healthy Environment

                   

                    • Remove triggers: Keep substances out of the home. 

                    • Encourage positive activities: Support hobbies, exercise, or other healthy outlets.

                    • Model healthy behaviors: Your actions can inspire and encourage recovery.


                  9. Stay Hopeful

                     

                      • Believe in change: Recovery is possible, even if it takes time. Miracles can happen. 

                      • Celebrate milestones: Recognize and reward their progress.

                      • Stay connected: Let them know they’re loved and valued, even during tough times.


                    Would you like to expand on any of these guidelines or customize them further for a specific audience?

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