Taking Care of Yourself Posted by:Jenn--Sunday, March 15, 2015

The following is an excerpt/paraphrase from an article by Cathy Taughinbaugh.  You can find her full text by clicking this link.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, guilty, angry, or ashamed because of your child’s drug or alcohol use?  Maybe you are feeling all of those emotions?  You know that your situation is unhealthy for you and your family, but you may feel helpless to do anything about it.

 

"While there are many things that a parent or family member can do, your child will make the final decision on whether s/he will seek a better life or continue on down his/her destructive path.  Of course, the hope is that one day your child will make better choices and create a more positive life for himself/herself."

But what can you do in the meantime to help yourself, and begin the essential process of healing? Here are nine ideas to get you started:

1. Take care of yourself.

2. Educate yourself on recovery strategies that will help you and your family member.  (Note:  Attend a PSST, NA, or AA meeting!  Read postings on the PSST blog!)

3. Positive reinforcement can make a difference

4. Allow for natural consequences to occur.

5. Create a social network

6. Start a physical exercise program

7. Pay attention to other family members

8. Live in The Now
9. Have Gratitude.