Practical tips for families supporting addiction recovery

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Addiction affects the entire family, not just the individual. If you have a loved one who is struggling, remember you are not alone. Dealing with addiction within the family can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. In Aboriginal communities, these challenges are often intensified by factors such as historical trauma, cultural disconnection, social inequities, stigma and complex community and family dynamics.

Recovery takes a village, and at Marrin Weejali, we offer the essential support needed. This journey requires love, patience and the right information. Our goal is to help repair shattered spirits. Here are some practical tips to support you on this path.

To address a problem, you first need to recognise it. Some signs that your loved one may be struggling with drug or alcohol addiction include:

• Increased secrecy or lying about activities and whereabouts
• Noticeable changes in behaviour or mood, such as irritability, anger or withdrawal
• Decline in personal hygiene and grooming
• Frequent financial issues or sudden need for money
• Loss of interest in hobbies, family events or cultural traditions
• Increased isolation from family and community
• Physical signs such as unexplained injuries, bloodshot eyes or sudden weight changes
• Changes in sleeping patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Neglecting responsibilities at home, work or school
• Engaging in risky or unsafe behaviours

To support your loved one’s recovery, it’s crucial to foster a home filled with security, love and understanding. Listening without judgment and offering encouragement can build open communication and trust, which are vital for their healing journey. At Marrin Weejali, we strive to create this same welcoming and non-judgmental atmosphere for everyone.

Physical adjustments can also make a big difference. Ensure that your home is a stress-free zone, free of substances and any triggers that may lead to relapse. A calm and positive space is ideal for the healing process.

Ensure you set realistic expectations and establish routines that your family members can rely on. Simple things like sharing meals together or offering to accompany them to appointments can mean the world to them. Remember, support extends beyond the immediate family. Engage with extended family, friends and community members to build a network of support that further reinforces your loved one’s safety net. This will make staying on the pathway to recovery much easier.

The cornerstone of supporting a loved one through addiction recovery is effective and consistent communication. It starts with approaching conversations with empathy and patience. Begin by expressing your concerns without judgment or using accusatory language.

Active listening is crucial. It involves fully concentrating, understanding and responding thoughtfully. Show your loved one that you’re engaged by nodding and using verbal affirmations such as “I understand” or “Tell me more about how you’re feeling.”

Use ‘I’ statements to communicate your feelings without placing blame. For example, “I feel scared when you stay out late drinking because I care about your safety.” This way, your loved one can hear your perspective without feeling attacked.

Encourage open dialogue so your loved one can freely share their experiences and feelings. Ask open-ended questions like, “Can you tell me more about what’s been going on recently?” This not only gives them a chance to articulate their struggles but also helps them feel heard and understood.

It’s important to understand that true recovery begins when the individual is ready to seek help. While you can’t force this decision, you can express your love and concern in a sincere and supportive way. Even if your loved one isn’t ready, you can reach out to Marrin Weejali for coping strategies and assistance.

Finding appropriate resources is an important part of the process. Our approach, deeply rooted in Aboriginal culture, is effective for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal clients. We offer culturally sensitive and respectful support tailored to each individual’s needs.

We collaborate with local service providers, health care providers and community service organisations to deliver comprehensive care throughout each recovery journey. Our services include counselling, programs, events, advocacy and more. Recognising that each person’s path to recovery is unique, we focus on empowering clients to regain control of their lives and achieve lasting, positive change.

Supporting a family member through drug or alcohol addiction recovery is a profound act of selflessness and love. However, it’s crucial to take care of yourself in the process. You can’t effectively support someone else if you’re not looking after your own wellbeing. Here are some suggestions for avoiding burnout:

• Take regular breaks to recharge emotionally and physically
• Join support groups to share experiences and gain insights
• Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as hobbies or exercise
• Seek advice and counselling from professionals when needed
• Establish and maintain healthy boundaries
• Practise mindfulness or meditation to manage stress
• Ensure adequate sleep and nutrition to stay healthy

Addressing addiction recovery in our community requires understanding the impact of historical and intergenerational trauma. Recognising these challenges allows us to offer support that is empathetic and focused on restoring a holistic connectedness to spirit, mind, body, kinship, community, culture and country.

By respecting and integrating Indigenous practices, we create a healing environment that honours cultural heritage and strengthens the support we provide. This approach ensures that clients receive the most relevant and effective care.

Marrin Weejali is a safe place where you can seek help and healing, no matter how broken you might feel. We are dedicated to treating every client with respect and dignity, without discrimination.

Addiction ruins lives, families and communities. Whether you’re a family member or a caregiver, the more you know about addiction and the support systems available, the better you can help your loved one. It does take a village to heal a shattered spirit.

If you or someone you know needs support to overcome addiction, our programs and services provide holistic, culturally safe support for individuals and families on their journey to healing and recovery. They are open to both Aboriginal and non-Indigenous people in Western Sydney.

See our Aboriginal drug and alcohol misuse programs and social and emotional support programs.

You are welcome at Marrin Weejali.

Contact us for a confidential discussion.